On the morning of December 16, Xuzhou-Suqian-Huai'an-Lianyungang Railway and Huai'an section in Lianyungang-Yangzhou-Zhenjiang Railway were officially opened to traffic, marking Huai'an has entered the era of high-speed rail and Huai'an people have realized their long-awaited dream. Huai'an municipal Party committee and municipal government held the ceremony to celebrate the operation of Huai'an East Railway Station which plays the role of a comprehensive passenger transport hub. Municipal leaders Yao Xiaodong, Wang Weikai, Qi Shouyu, and Zhang Guoliang, units in construction and supervision, as well as representatives from all walks of life showed up at Huai'an East Railway Station and witnessed this exciting moment in history.

On the same day, Huai'an Deputies to the People's Congress, CPPCC members and the masses were also invited to experience the first operation. Yao Xiaodong shook hands with all the guests, welcomed them to the platform, and wished everyone a good journey. Many citizens also spontaneously came to the Station, gathered at the front square and expressed their happiness with joyful songs and beautiful dances in order to celebrate this great day. 

The launch of Xuzhou-Suqian-Huai'an-Lianyungang Railway and Huai'an section in the Lianyungang-Yangzhou-Zhenjiang Railway is of special significance for Huai'an. It will further highlight Huai'an's role of a regional comprehensive transportation hub, promote its efficient flow of passengers, business, information, capital, technology and other elements, and accelerate its integration pace into a series of national and provincial major strategies.