Baoji-Chengdu Railway

The Baocheng Railway, crossing the rugged Qinling and Daba mountain ranges, stands as one of the greatest achievements in China’s modern history. It broke the long-standing isolation between the southwest and the central plains, becoming the first rail artery connecting northwest and southwest China—transforming regional economies and strengthening national unity. This book recounts the full journey of the Baocheng Railway: from its many unrealized plans in the early 20th century, to the decisive leadership of New China, through to its completion and opening to traffic. The authors vividly depict the difficult choices in route selection, how engineers overcame extremely challenging geological conditions, and the groundbreaking engineering innovations developed along the way. More than an engineering feat, the Baocheng Railway symbolizes the resilience and collective wisdom of the Chinese people. It not only opened a critical transportation corridor but also fostered national cohesion and new momentum for development. Blending historical narrative, engineering insights, and human spirit, this book is both a heartfelt tribute to the builders and an epic of dreams and determination.