Songjiang Tram Light Rail Network, Shanghai, China

This article explores the development and implementation of the Songjiang Tram Light Rail Network, a significant public transportation project in the Songjiang District of Shanghai, China. The project aims to address the growing transportation needs of the region, providing efficient, reliable, and safe transit options for commuters and contributing to the overall economic development of Songjiang. The analysis will delve into the project’s phases, infrastructure, rolling stock, operational aspects, and the financial considerations involved. A detailed overview of the project’s impact on the community, its environmental considerations, and the future prospects of expansion will be presented. This examination seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the complexities and successes involved in constructing and operating a modern light rail system within a rapidly expanding urban environment like Shanghai.

Project Overview and Phases

The Songjiang Tram Light Rail Network encompasses two lines, implemented in two distinct phases. Phase one, completed in late 2018, focused on Tram Line Two, connecting Canghua Road station in the west to Zhongchen Road station in the east. This section opened to the public in December 2018, with a second segment operational by mid-2019. Phase two incorporated the construction of Tram Line One, extending the network’s reach and capacity. The entire network, upon completion, comprises a total of 31km of track, serving 46 stations. Daily ridership projections target 170,000 passengers.

Infrastructure and Rolling Stock

Tram Line Two, the first phase, boasts a 13.9km track length. Trains operate with a headway (time interval between trains) of 10-15 minutes, adjustable to accommodate peak-hour demands. Convenient intermodal transfers are facilitated through nearby bus stops at each station. Tram Line One, completed in Phase Two, adds a further 17.1km and 26 stations, creating an east-west connection between Xinqiao and Chenta Road. The entire network utilizes 30 Alstom Citadis-based, low-floor Silkworm Light Rail Vehicles (LRVs). Each 33m bi-directional LRV features five sections, ample seating for 56 passengers, and a total capacity of 300 passengers. These LRVs achieve a maximum speed of 50-60 km/h.

Operations and Management

Shanghai Keolis, a joint venture between Keolis Group (49%) and Shanghai Shentong Metro Group (51%), assumed operational control of the Songjiang Tram Network in August 2018, managing the system for a five-year period. This collaboration leverages both international expertise in light rail operations and local market knowledge to ensure efficient and effective service.

Financing and Procurement

The €72m ($81.9m) contract for the 30 Citadis trams was awarded to Alstom in April 2015, executed by Shanghai Alstom Transport Company (SATCO), a joint venture between Alstom and Shanghai Electric Group. SATCO was responsible for the manufacturing and assembly, incorporating Alstom-supplied traction systems, compartments, and Train Control and Monitoring Systems (TCMS). The TCMS was sourced from Alstom’s La Rochelle plant in France, with other components (hardware, bogies, power modules) produced at Alstom’s various French facilities.

Conclusions

The Songjiang Tram Light Rail Network stands as a successful example of modern light rail transit development within a densely populated urban area. The project successfully addressed the need for improved public transportation in the Songjiang District, enhancing connectivity and providing a viable alternative to private vehicles. The phased implementation demonstrated effective project management, allowing for the integration of lessons learned throughout the construction process. The collaboration between international and local entities, exemplified by the Shanghai Keolis partnership, effectively combined expertise in both operations and local knowledge, maximizing efficiency and sustainability. The successful procurement and integration of the Alstom Citadis LRVs showcased a commitment to modern, efficient, and passenger-friendly rolling stock. The projected daily ridership of 170,000 passengers underscores the network’s significance in accommodating the region’s growing population and commuting needs. The success of this project may serve as a model for future light rail initiatives in other rapidly developing urban centers. Future expansion plans for the Songjiang Tram Network, along with continuous monitoring of passenger satisfaction and operational efficiency, will be crucial to ensuring the continued success and sustainability of this project in the long term. The project’s success is further validated by its seamless integration with existing bus networks, promoting intermodal transit and optimizing overall mobility within the district. The successful completion of this project demonstrates a strategic approach to urban planning and transportation management, providing a valuable blueprint for similar infrastructure initiatives globally. Further research into its long-term economic and social impact, including employment generation and property value appreciation, would provide a comprehensive evaluation of its overall success.

Company Information:

• Alstom: A global leader in railway infrastructure and rolling stock manufacturing.
• Keolis Group: An international public transport operator.
• Shanghai Shentong Metro Group: A major player in Shanghai’s public transportation sector.
• Shanghai Electric Group: A large Chinese industrial conglomerate.
• Shanghai Alstom Transport Company (SATCO): A joint venture between Alstom and Shanghai Electric Group.
• Shanghai Keolis: A joint venture between Keolis Group and Shanghai Shentong Metro Group.