On Jan 9, the Baitashan Tunnel in Lanzhou, Northwest China's Gansu province finally opened in both directions after half year of probationary use with one-way traffic.

Rendering of the Baitashan Tunnel in Lanzhou, Gansu province [Photo/Lanzhou.cn]

The tunnel line, measuring about 2,245 meters, is designed to relieve traffic congestion of a main road in the city.

Some residents said that the tunnel cut their travel time by about 20 minutes in the morning rush.

Rendering of the Baitashan Tunnel in Lanzhou, Gansu province [Photo/Lanzhou.cn]

In addition, being contiguous to more than 20 historical and cultural attractions, the tunnel will favor the construction of a big Yellow River scenic area.

The project started construction in March, 2021 with an investment of about 2.45 billion yuan ($342 million), with its northern line temporarily opened to traffic on July 6 last year.