This line, which commenced operations on 6 December 2017, runs 510 km (320 mi) through Shaanxi and Sichuan provinces and accommodates trains traveling at speeds up to 250 km/h (160 mph).

[4] The line traverses the rugged Qin and Daba Mountains and connects the Guanzhong Plains with the Sichuan Basin.

[5] The railway passes under ecologically sensitive areas including the Taibaishan and Hanzhong Crested Ibis National Nature Reserves, which are home to the endangered giant panda, golden snub-nosed monkey, takin and crested ibis.

However, the section from Xi'an to Hanzhong, crossing in tunnels under the Qin Mountains, follows an entirely new direct route.

[6] However, with the announcement of the expanded 8+8 high speed rail grid, the two originally planned lines were reinstated in the masterplan.