Core Insights - The Qinghai Jiuzhi to Sichuan Ma'erkang Expressway (Jiuma Expressway) has opened a 87.5 km section, significantly reducing travel time to Hongyuan Grassland to 4 hours and marking the end of the historical lack of expressway access in Hongyuan County, Aba Prefecture [1][2] - Jiuma Expressway is noted for being the highest expressway in Sichuan, with an average elevation of 3300 meters, traversing complex geological structures and high-altitude conditions [1] Construction Challenges - The construction faced significant geological challenges, particularly in the control project of the Chazhenliangzi Tunnel, which is a rare high-altitude soft rock tunnel. Initial progress was slow, with only 100 meters completed in the first two years due to the soft rock conditions [1] - The project team adapted their construction methods to improve efficiency, increasing the monthly excavation rate from under 10 meters to 40 meters, ultimately completing the tunnel within the planned five years [1] Environmental Considerations - The project incorporated innovative techniques to protect the fragile high-altitude ecosystem, including the relocation of 69,000 square meters of native grassland, achieving a survival rate of over 85% for transplanted vegetation [2] - The construction methods included the use of flexible layers and insulation materials to mitigate the impact on the wetland ecosystem, ensuring that the natural drainage systems were preserved [2] Economic Impact - Jiuma Expressway serves as a vital transportation link for local economies, facilitating the movement of goods, particularly highland yak, and enhancing tourism opportunities in the region [2] - Local businesses are expected to benefit from increased tourism, with plans to develop new attractions and improve existing services along the expressway [2]