What is the vehicle seating capacity limit on Duku Highway?
3 Answers
Duku Highway vehicle restrictions: Only vehicles with seven seats or fewer are allowed on the entire Duku Highway. Below is relevant information: 1. Duku Highway: It is the abbreviation for the section of National Highway 217 from Dushanzi to Kuche. Starting from Dushanzi District, Karamay City, Xinjiang in the north, it traverses the Tianshan Mountains from north to south and connects to Kuche City, Aksu Prefecture, Xinjiang in the south, with a total length of 562.25 kilometers. 2. Vehicles restricted on Duku Highway include: Passenger vehicles with more than seven seats (excluding seven seats), trucks with a permitted load capacity exceeding 5 tons (excluding 5 tons), hazardous chemical transport vehicles, trailers (full trailers, center-axle trailers, semi-trailers), three-wheeled vehicles, low-speed trucks, tractors, and agricultural machinery are prohibited.
I remember last year when I traveled to Xinjiang by car, I specifically researched the vehicle regulations for the Duku Highway. There is indeed a restriction allowing only 7-seater vehicles or smaller to pass, as the road is narrow with many sharp turns and steep slopes, especially in the Tianshan section. Vehicles larger than 7 seats, such as buses or large SUVs, may struggle with insufficient turning radius, increasing the risk of accidents. Driving a sedan through there left a deep impression on me—the scenery was magnificent but the terrain was rugged, and the significant altitude changes affected engine performance. I recommend checking your vehicle's condition before the trip, ensuring responsive brakes and good tire traction, and carrying snow chains for winter slippery conditions. Don’t forget to check for updates on local policies, as the road is seasonally open—avoid periods of cold waves to prevent road closures. Drive safely at a moderate speed, enjoy the scenic views along the way, and avoid stopping at dangerous spots.
As someone frequently involved in car maintenance, I often discuss the traffic restrictions on the Duku Highway when helping friends prepare for long trips. This road strictly limits vehicles to those with 7 seats or fewer, primarily for safety control: smaller cars are more agile, reducing the risk of losing control on sharp turns or overloading and damaging the road surface. Driving larger vehicles poses a higher center-of-gravity risk, especially in high-wind areas where rollovers are possible. It's advised that owners service key components like the braking system and coolant before the trip, as altitude pressure changes can accelerate engine fatigue. Choose the right season, with autumn offering the best road conditions to avoid heavy fog. Bring a car charger and a physical map in case of poor signal and navigation failure. Keep the fuel tank full and avoid taking unnecessary risks.
