Shanghai Metro Line 2 west extension to open before 8th CIIE

A diagram of the west extension of Shanghai Metro Line 2. [Photo/Shanghai Metro]

The west extension of Shanghai Metro Line 2 is set to open ahead of the eighth China International Import Expo, or CIIE, which will be held from Nov 5 to 10 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center or NECC in Shanghai, according to Shanghai Metro.

The new extension, from the NECC station to Panxiang Road station, recently entered its trial phase with empty trains, signaling a shift from construction to preparations for the start of operations.

Line 2 links major transportation hubs — including Shanghai's two airports and Hongqiao Railway Station — and runs through the central urban area of the metropolis, making it the city's busiest metro line.

The new extension will further improve access to the NECC, particularly during large events like the CIIE.

Beyond the expo, the extension will connect the West Hongqiao Business District more closely to Shanghai's central urban area.