The Ministry of Science and Technology also carried out high-speed technology innovation. For example, the ministry arranged a group of research projects. The projects attracted 2.2 billion yuan ($350 million) in government investment and more than 5 billion yuan from the business sector.

"The sci-tech projects helped us to build independent intellectual property rights," Cao said. Chinese companies are producing three 350 km/h trains, and the goal is to link the high-speed network with lower-speed trains, for example elevated trains, traveling inside a city. "This could change people's way of life," Cao said.

It is feasible that people could live and work in different cities, Cao said. "A dynamic economy needs greater public mobility."

On Dec 26, a new high-speed rail line opened linking Beijing and Guangzhou, but the ticket prices raised a few eyebrows.

Prices for the 2,298 km journey ranged from 865 yuan to 2,727 yuan for the 8-hour trip.

"We have to admit that the ticket price is too high for most people," Cao said. "But we should also be aware that there are some people who are willing to pay the high price to save more time.

"That is the reason we construct high-speed railways - to save time for people who would like to pay more."

chengyingqi@chinadaily.com.cn