Dongguan Metro Line 1 is entering the final stretch toward its highly anticipated launch. On July 9, key parts of the project, built by China Railway First Group and China Railway Second Bureau, officially passed inspection, signaling that major construction is complete and the line is on track to open by the end of 2025.

Line 1 is one of Dongguan's core metro routes, running nearly 58 kilometers from Dongguanxi Station to Meitang Station. It will connect 10 towns and districts including Wangniudun, Hongmei, Daojiao, Wanjiang, Nancheng, Dongcheng, Dalingshan, Songshan Lake, Dalang and Huangjiang, significantly improving daily commutes across the city.

The latest inspection covered both the communications and safety systems as well as the train depot in Daojiao. Experts confirmed that all tested components, including ticketing, security, and monitoring systems, met quality and safety standards. The Daojiao depot is now fully equipped to handle train testing, maintenance, and storage, paving the way for full trial operations.

Line 1 will include 25 stations, with a top operating speed of 120 km/h. Once operational, it will link with the existing Line 2, forming a cross-shaped interchange. The line will also offer easy transfers to several major intercity railways, including connections to Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and the rest of the Greater Bay Area.

More than just a transit line, Metro Line 1 is expected to boost regional development, support industrial upgrades along the route, and help build a “one-hour living circle” across the GBA. The city is now racing ahead with final preparations.