The inaugural train departs from Hangzhou West Station and Wenzhou North Station. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The much-anticipated high-speed railway connecting Hangzhou and Wenzhou commenced operations on Friday, marking a milestone in Zhejiang province's transportation infrastructure. With this new line, the "one-hour transport circle" between Hangzhou and Wenzhou becomes a reality, connecting key urban areas and bringing high-speed rail access to regions that were previously unserved, such as Pujiang, Dongyang and Xianju, according to experts.

Zhang Yi, general manager of the Rail Transit Department of Zhejiang Communications Investment Group Co., said, "It strengthens the rapid connection between the southernmost part of the Yangtze River Delta, Wenzhou, and other central cities in the region, further accelerating the integration of the 'Yangtze River Delta on rails'."

The new line is 276 kilometers long and is designed for speeds of up to 350 km per hour. The journey from Hangzhou West to Yiwu and Wenzhou North can now be completed in just 34 minutes and 87 minutes, respectively.

The line's usefulness extends beyond convenient passenger transport. Towns and villages along the route are poised to benefit from the substantial development opportunities now available.

On Sept 4, Huang Shaowang, deputy director of the village committee of Huolu village, said, "The whole village is eagerly anticipating the opening of the railway. We are fully prepared to welcome tourists. Through the renovation of our village, we are creating a new model of rural development that combines agriculture, culture and tourism. The railway's opening will bring more tourists to our village, thereby increasing the income of our villagers."

The benefits of the railway also extend to Xianju county in Taizhou city, particularly in the development of its medical technology industries. Xianju is home to a medical device town just five kilometers from Xianju station on the railway.