Shanghai's metro network, currently with a 898-km total mileage, is set to surpass 900 kilometers in total operating length with the launch of the second phase of Metro Line 18, scheduled to open by the end of this month.

The extension of Line 18 adds six underground stations and stretches northward and westward from the existing South Changjiang Road station to Kangwen Road station. The new section has recently passed early-stage operation safety assessments, clearing the way for its commercial opening.

The newly added stations include Tongnan Road, West Changjiang Road, Aihui Road, Hulan Road, and Kangwen Road. South Jiangyang Road station, although part of the extension, will not open at the same time.

Two of the new stations will offer transfer options. Hulan Road station connects with Line 1 through a combination of underpass and overpass passageways. South Jiangyang Road station is planned to link with the future Line 19, which is currently under construction.

The journey between South Changjiang Road station and Kangwen Road station will take about 15 minutes, a change expected to significantly improve commuting efficiency for residents along the route.

According to Shanghai Metro, South Jiangyang Road station has been completed and has met safety requirements for early-stage operation, but its opening has been delayed due to ongoing construction and development in the Wusong Innovation City area. Infrastructure development in the surrounding area is being accelerated to enable the station to open as soon as conditions allow.

The design of the new stations continues the "one station, one concept" approach introduced in the first phase of Line 18, integrating distinctive architectural styles with local cultural elements.

Tongnan Road station, for instance, features warm light wood tones and a station name wall inspired by Songnan egg carving, a form of traditional intangible cultural heritage.

Officials said the Line 18 extension is expected to support Baoshan district's transformation and promote coordinated development in key areas. The project is also anticipated to inject new momentum into the construction of a scientific and technological innovation hub, the development of a core urban area within an international metropolis, and the creation of a model zone for green and low-carbon transformation.

Source: Shanghai Observer