Chinese route upgrade forces Jitong line to close

This pair of Chinese QJ 2-10-2-'s storm up the western approach to Shandiang Summit in January 2005

Just 2 weeks ago GW Travel, operators of the famous "Jingpeng Orient Express", confirmed that the famous Jitong line is expected to close completely at the end of 2012. This is due to the building of a new line avoiding the Jingpeng Pass, and as no money can be found to keep the line running, the Chinese Authorities have no option but to close the line completely.

To pay tribute to this wonderful line, GW Travel have partnered up with "Steam Railway Magazine" to offer one last tour encompassing this spectacular railway. The 2012 "Jingpeng Orient Express" takes place over the final weekend of January. You can join the fabulous GW Travel Rolling Hotel or have some fun with the Steam Railway readers as they spend the day walking up and down the line recording the very last QJ hauled trains before the famous line closes for the forseable future. Details of this tour will appear later in January.

Of course it may re-open, but there are no plans for this at present.

We are all sorry for the passing of this legendary steam railway.

Best Regards,

Steve & Chris Nelson