According to the Communication Bureau of Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan Province, following the newly constructed tunnel recently opened to traffic, the transit time from Dongguoluo to Haizi Mountain along the National Highway No. 318, a major route entering Tibet, has been shortened by five hours.

The Dongguoluo to Haizi Mountain section, 270 kilometers long, is one of the busiest routes entering Tibet. Everyday, there are thousands of private cars, tourist buses and vans passing along this major route.

The National Highway No. 318 is the most convenient and fastest road entering Tibet. It starts in Shanghai at its eastern end and wanders westward 5,476 kilometers; its destination is Zham Township in Nyalam County of Shigatse City which borders with Nepal.

The Gaorsi Mountain Tunnel on the National Highway No. 318 was formally opened to traffic on Dec. 30, 2015, marking the three tunnels located between the Dongguoluo and Haizi Mountain have been put into full use. These three tunnels will decrease the effects caused by snowy weather, making the route entering Tibet safer, faster and more convenient.