China will invest more than 5 trillion yuan to renovate and expand its urban underground pipeline networks during the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026–2030), according to official plans.
China boasts the world's largest underground pipeline networks, but many sections have reached or exceeded their design lifespan.
During the five-year period, the country aims to construct and upgrade about 770,000 kilometers of urban pipelines. Of this total, 365,000 kilometers are designated for renovation.
"We have guided over 2,000 cities and counties to conduct comprehensive surveys of their pipeline networks and develop scientific implementation plans. We have also revised technical standards for water supply, gas, heating, sewage, utility tunnels, and lifeline safety engineering projects," said Xing Haifeng, a senior official of the Urban Development Department at the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development.
China currently has about 3.9 million kilometers of urban underground pipelines, along with 7,700 kilometers of built integrated utility tunnels.
Over the next five years, the country will accelerate the renovation of aging pipelines while building new modern infrastructure, including new underground utility tunnels.
China to invest over 5 trln yuan in urban underground pipeline upgrades during 15th Five-Year Plan period
