CONSTRUCTION on Metro Line 3, which links Futian, Luohu and Longgang districts, started yesterday (Dec 26).

The line will start at Hongling Road Central in Futian District and extend 32.895 kilometers across Luohu District to Longxing Street in Longgang District. When it is completed in 2009, it will reduce the travel time between Hongling Road Central to Longxing Street to 45 minutes.

The line includes 21 stations and is linked to Line 1 at the Laojie Station.

The project is estimated to cost 10.987 billion yuan (US$1.35 billion).

The Shenzhen Metro Line 3 Investment Co. Ltd. has signed a letter of intent with Hong Kong MTR to collaborate on the project. According to the letter of intent, Hong Kong MTR will invest 4 billion yuan in Line 3 and receive a 40-percent share in the line. It will also take charge of the line's maintenance and management. Details of the collaboration are still under discussion.

The line will include a 21.727 kilometer-long elevated section outside the special zone. Residents near the elevated rail fear that it could cause noise pollution. However, officials with the Metro Line 3 Investment Co. Ltd. said the line would bring an increase of no more than three decibels in sound, as various measures will be taken to reduce the noise pollution along the road.

Editor: Wing