OrchidLink
| Transit Type | • Heavy Rail |
|---|---|
| Number of lines | 2 (2 Heavy) |
The OrchidLink Corporation (OrchidLink) is a modern railway operator established in 2015. The company aims to revolutionize urban and intercity transportation by providing high-speed and aesthetically pleasing rail services. OrchidLink is known for its advanced technology integration, and uniquely decorated stations, and seeks to expand its network to cater to both urban commuters and leisure travelers.
History
Establishment
In 2015, OrchidLink was founded with the vision of creating a new standard in rail transport for the Joban region. The government sought a private-public partnership to push innovation in the transport sector, leading to the formation of OrchidLink. The company quickly secured funding and began planning its first major project, the Azure Line, which aimed to connect major districts with an efficient and stylish service.
Azure Line
Main article: Azure Line
Construction on the Azure Line began in late 2016, with OrchidLink focusing on both speed and user experience. The line utilizes custom SP1900 trains, equipped with Dynamic OrchidLink SD31 displays that provide passengers with real-time updates on routes, schedules, and other travel information. The stations along the Azure Line are known for their modern design and comfort, offering a pleasant commuting experience.
The Azure Line officially opened to the public in November 2018, quickly becoming a favorite for daily commuters due to its reliability and speed.
Sunflower Way
After the success of the Azure Line, OrchidLink embarked on its second major project: the Sunflower Way. Unlike the high-speed Azure Line, Sunflower Way was envisioned as a scenic rail route connecting various cities and offering travelers a slower, more leisurely journey through picturesque landscapes. British trains were selected for this line, reflecting a commitment to both quality and heritage.
Construction began in early 2020, but the project encountered a significant setback in August 2021 when a catastrophic landslide devastated several kilometers of the completed track and nearby infrastructure. The disaster forced a halt in construction as the damaged sections required extensive rebuilding, delaying the project's timeline indefinitely.
Despite efforts to recover from the landslide, Sunflower Way faced another tragic incident in May 2024. During a routine inspection of a segment passing through the City of Horizon Haven, several buildings near the railway suddenly collapsed due to previously undetected structural weaknesses exacerbated by construction using heavy machinery. The collapse caused significant damage to the rail infrastructure, raising safety concerns and leading to an immediate suspension of all work in the affected area.
The incident led to a thorough investigation by both OrchidLink and local authorities, which concluded that the vibrations and groundwork associated with the construction likely destabilized the aging buildings. The company has since been collaborating with urban planners and engineers to ensure that future construction does not pose similar risks.
To this day, the Sunflower Way remains under construction, with OrchidLink committed to overcoming these challenges. The company continues to work on rebuilding and securing the route, with an expected completion date that has yet to be announced. Despite these setbacks, OrchidLink remains dedicated to delivering the scenic rail experience that was initially envisioned.
Horizon Haven Partnership
In June 2024, OrchidLink entered into a close partnership with the City of Horizon Haven. The company is planning to provide full light rail and heavy rail infrastructure throughout the city. While many details of this ambitious project remain unknown, it signifies OrchidLink's growing influence and commitment to expanding its transportation network. The partnership aims to integrate seamless urban transit solutions, further solidifying Horizon Haven as a key hub in the region’s rail network.