The preliminary design displays the section from Qijia Mountain to Jintang Island for phase two of Ningbo-Zhoushan Double Track Expressway. [Photo provided by Zhejiang Communication Investment Group]

A major breakthrough was recently made in phase two of the Ningbo-Zhoushan Double Track Expressway, after the preliminary design for the section from Qijia Mountain in Ningbo to Jintang Island in Zhoushan was approved. 

Spanning approximately 18 kilometers, the project is designed as a six-lane expressway and carries a total estimated investment of around 15.6 billion yuan ($2.17 billion). Construction is scheduled to start within the year, with completion targeted for 2030.

A key section is the 11.6-kilometer Jintang Undersea Tunnel, recognized as the world's deepest, longest, and widest highway shield tunnel laid beneath a sea area.