焦点访谈｜千里天山半日还——乌尉高速公路通车全纪录

Core Viewpoint - The opening of the Urumqi to Yili Expressway significantly enhances transportation efficiency between northern and southern Xinjiang, reducing travel time from 7 hours to 3.5 hours, which is expected to stimulate economic development and improve logistics across the region [1][8][25] Infrastructure Development - The Urumqi to Yili Expressway is a monumental project with an investment of 46.7 billion yuan and a construction period of 5 years and 8 months, spanning a total length of 324.7 kilometers [1][8] - The expressway features a dual four-lane design and includes the Tianshan Victory Tunnel, which is the longest highway tunnel globally at 22.13 kilometers [12][25] Economic Impact - The expressway connects rich agricultural resources in southern Xinjiang with industrial manufacturing capabilities in the north, leading to reduced logistics costs and enhanced local employment opportunities [8][18] - Logistics companies have reported significant cost savings; for instance, a major logistics firm noted a reduction in transportation costs from 2,050 yuan to 1,900 yuan per trip, saving 150 yuan per journey [18] Tourism and Local Economy - The expressway has boosted tourism, with increased visitor numbers to attractions like Bosten Lake, which saw a doubling of tourists during the New Year period compared to previous years [16] - Local agricultural products, such as pears and fish, are now more accessible to broader markets, enhancing sales and contributing to rural revitalization [18][20] Trade and Export - The expressway facilitates faster export logistics, improving delivery times for agricultural products to Central Asia and Europe by 30%, thus supporting local economies [20] - A local company successfully exported 15,000 orchid plants to Russia shortly after the expressway's opening, highlighting its role in enhancing trade efficiency [20] Social Benefits - The expressway serves as a vital lifeline, improving emergency response times, as demonstrated by a case where a critically ill child was transported from Kurla to Urumqi in a timely manner [23][25] - It symbolizes a bridge of unity among different ethnic groups in Xinjiang, fostering social cohesion and regional development [25]