Core Insights - The opening of the Xi'an to Yan'an high-speed railway (West Yan'an High-speed Railway) marks a significant milestone in China's high-speed rail development, coinciding with the 132nd anniversary of Mao Zedong's birth and pushing the total high-speed rail mileage in China beyond 50,000 kilometers, solidifying its position as the world's largest and most modern high-speed rail network [2][4]. Group 1: Importance of the West Yan'an High-speed Railway - The West Yan'an High-speed Railway is a crucial artery for the region, significantly reducing travel time between Xi'an and Yan'an from 2.5 hours to approximately 1 hour [4][7]. - The railway spans 299.8 kilometers with a design speed of 350 kilometers per hour, forming an essential part of the national high-speed rail network and contributing to the "米" shaped high-speed rail framework in Shaanxi Province [4][6]. Group 2: Regional Development and Economic Impact - The railway is expected to enhance the development of the revolutionary old area of Yan'an, providing new opportunities for economic growth and resource flow, including talent and capital, which are vital for the region's development [9][12]. - Yan'an's GDP is projected to be 238.336 billion yuan in 2024, ranking fifth in Shaanxi Province, indicating a significant economic gap compared to Xi'an and Yulin, highlighting the need for improved infrastructure to bridge this gap [8][11]. Group 3: Strategic Significance - The West Yan'an High-speed Railway is part of a broader strategy to promote the western development initiative, support rural revitalization in revolutionary areas, and optimize the national high-speed rail network layout [6][12]. - The completion of the railway will facilitate the connection between Xi'an, Yan'an, and Yulin, creating a high-speed transportation corridor that enhances the economic vitality and regional coordination of the Xi'an metropolitan area [11][12].