China's State Council has issued guidelines on urban infrastructure construction in China, with the emphasis to be placed on underground construction work ahead of construction above ground. In addition, besides government input, the private sector will also be encouraged to invest in construction of infrastructure. In particular, work should be carried out on construction and renovation of underground pipe networks, including pipes for water, rain, heat, gas, sewage and communication.
Furthermore, by 2015, 73,000 km of sewage pipes should be added in China, while 80,000 km of old urban gas piping and 92,800 km of old urban heat piping should be renovated, according to the State Council's guidelines.
Also by 2015, at least 85 percent of urban polluted water should be treated. In addition, urban underground railways are to play a key role in public traffic. By 2015, the country will add 1,000 km of rails for transportation.