Purple Avenue, a key section of the transport loop along the eastern foothills of the Helan Mountains in Ningxia Hui autonomous region, opened to the public on Aug 29.

Designed to serve multiple purposes, the avenue provides greater protection against flash floods while helping preserve the surrounding landscape. It also connects local wineries and supports tourism, outdoor recreation and local economic development.

Purple Avenue, with the Helan Mountains in the background. [Photo/WeChat account: nxtour]

Since the project started construction in August last year, 22.77 kilometers of main roads have been upgraded and renovated, 70 kilometers of infrastructure for walking and cycling have been newly built and upgraded, 14 tertiary post station service facilities have been constructed, and 11 bridges have been erected to better protect against floods.

The project has significantly improved the area's transport network, roadside environment and public amenities.

The avenue helps separate freight and tourist traffic, improving the efficiency of freight transport on national highways while making travel safer and reducing the risks posed by flash floods.

The avenue is suitable for cycling, camping, and suburban micro-vacations, as well as sports events such as marathons.