INTER-CITY trains running between Shenzhen and Guangzhou gradually returned to their normal schedules yesterday following the renovation of 25 railway stations on Line 4 of the Shenzhen-Guangzhou railway.

Passengers have complained recently about the frequent train delays. The railway authority apologized to the public for the delays, which were caused by renovation of the railway stations along the fourth railway line linking the two cities.

The renovation of 13 railway stations affected trains on Line 1 and Line 2 of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen railway.

To ensure the quality of the new rail line, the speed of the trains was restricted to between 45 to 80 kilometers per hour during certain periods of construction. The speed will now be gradually raised to 140 to 160 kilometers per hour.

Meanwhile, the city's railway police reminded the public Tuesday to stay away from rail lines and not to play, sit or walk on the Line 4 track, which will have 25,000 volts of electricity when it is put into operation April 5.

Residents have been forbidden from flying kites and setting off fireworks within 50 meters from the rail line.

Guangdong started construction of its fourth railway line linking Shenzhen and Guangzhou in 2005. The new rail link, which extends 147 kilometers, cost 4.8 billion yuan (US$615.39 million).

Editor: Wing