Wuwei Transportation

Just two years ago, shortly after the highway opend, I wrote the following here: "The toll road from Lanzhou north to Wuwei (and then beyond along the Hexi corridor) is in excellent condition. It is just a two lane road, but the tolls reduce the volume of traffic so making for a quicker, safer journey. There are plenty of junctions so you can get off whenever you want to explore the villages or towns."

But now, in mid 2006, this road is in a disgraceful state and, especially between Gulang and Yongdeng, the road is just dreadful. The surface has deteriorated so badly in just 2 years that even driving at 70kph is hazardous. Heads would roll in most countries if a major highway was falling to pieces but here, nobody seems bothered.

To make matters worse, there is a speed trap which seems to only affect certain vehicles. This will catch you southbound north of the Yongdeng toll and northbound south of it (if you see what Imnean), so the police can check out the driver and fine him at the toll. Given the state of the road in the area where the photo was taken - and the alleged speed - it seems a dubious situation. Take care!

Note that an early part of the Great Wall ran up the valley from Wuwei through Gulang to Tanzhu and Lanzhou. I saw a number of fortified buildings and watch towers but work pressure prevented me from exploring the valley more carefully. The countryside would make excellent walking territory in autumn and spring.