A feasibility study of the Chengdu-Xian railway project has been approved by the State Development and Reform Commission. The 519km double tracked railway line will cater mainly for passengers. It will start at Chengmianle Railway Station in Chengdu and end at Xian North Railway Station. The estimated cost is around Rmb69bn.

The detailed plan is now with the Ministry of Railway for approval. Construction is expected to start before the end of this year and should be completed by 2013.