The Hengqin Line of the Macao Light Rapid Transit, connecting Lotus Station in Macao to Hengqin Station in Zhuhai, has officially commenced operations.
The project was managed by the Nam Kwong (Group) Company Limited and co-developed by Nam Kwong Real Estate Co., Ltd and China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (Macau) Ltd., with contributions from several subsidiaries of China Railway Construction Corporation Limited.
Spanning 2.2 kilometers, the Hengqin Line serves as a vital link between the Macao Special Administrative Region and the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin.
The line, construction of which began in April 2021, includes a combination of elevated bridges, an undersea shield tunnel and two stations.
It is the first Macao light rail project to adopt shield tunneling technology for undersea construction. To ensure safety and quality, the project team adopted innovative solutions, including a customized shield tunneling system, and implemented a BIM (Building Information Modeling) smart construction management platform, which has won numerous awards.
To address fire safety concerns, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations were used to analyze tunnel temperature, visibility, and carbon monoxide levels under 31 different fire scenarios. These included “train-on-fire” incidents in the tunnel, fires at station entrances and underwater tunnel fires, providing critical data for the fire safety design of the project.
The project also introduced cutting-edge solutions, including an energy-efficient variable frequency fan system, coordinated multi-control systems, and nozzle-based ventilation to enhance air circulation and safety.
Lotus Station features a red-themed design inspired by the original Lotus Port facilities, enabling continuity with local culture. Hengqin Station, with its blue-tone design, welcomes passengers under the theme “Gateway to Macao”.
Despite limited space at the Passenger Inspection Building, the design incorporates multiple vertical elevators to ensure seamless connections between Hengqin Station, the Hengqin Port and transit hubs. Travelers with large luggage or mobility challenges can directly access customs halls and transport platforms, reflecting the project’s commitment to user-friendly design.
Additional features include “comprehensive restrooms”, including for individuals with disabilities, parents with children and nursing mothers, emphasizing a people-oriented approach.
As a significant infrastructure project, the Hengqin Line connects seamlessly with the Taipa Line in Macao and the extension of the Guangzhou-Zhuhai Intercity Railway in Hengqin. It provides a comfortable and convenient cross-border travel experience for residents, supporting the integration of Macao into the one-hour living circle of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
