Under the spotlight at the maintenance base in Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, rows of silver fast trains stand in perfect formation. From above, the assembly resembles a fleet of land-based aircraft carriers ready for service.
This is one of the launching pads across China for the world's largest human migration - chunyun. The 40-day annual travel rush associated with the Spring Festival officially begins at midnight on February 2, ahead of the country's most important holiday.
This year, the chunyun will probably break all records. Official estimates predict a staggering 9.5 billion cross-border trips in the 40 days leading up to March 13.
The resilience of Chinese logistics
Like every year, the chunyun is a formidable logistical operation. Self-driving cars remain the dominant mode of transport, approximately 80 % of all trips. Rail and civil aviation will reach historic highs with 540 million and 95 million passengers respectively.
Underneath these numbers is a sophisticated multi-level infrastructure. The Department of Transport has expanded the network of electric vehicle charging stations to 71,500 points, and passengers can monitor real-time availability via a dedicated gadget. Mobile standby charging units are deployed during peak hours.
With more than 50,000 km of high-speed lines, China's railway system uses modern reservation systems and infrastructure to ensure smooth and high-capacity routes. Safety remains a top priority, with de-icing equipment, special rescue teams, drones and helicopters ready for rapid action before snow fronts arrive in the north and centre of the country. Chunyun coordination involves more than 20 government departments.
Care for passengers
This year's travel rush offers more „heart care“, tailored to the different needs of millions of travellers. A key feature is „silent cars“ on more than 8,000 fast trains, where the volume of announcements is limited to 40 %, staff provide gentle assistance and passengers can enjoy free earplugs or entertainment packages for children.
Airports and stations are expanding „Silver Hair“ services for seniors, such as priority check-in and boarding for passengers over 80. For families with pets, Henan Province has an expanded „Pet Rail“ service with the possibility of booking special transport boxes via the 12306 app.
Chinese New Year
The mass movement of people during chunyun heads home to celebrate the Spring Festival - Chinese New Year, which this year falls on February 17. The festival symbolizes renewal and family unity and includes traditional customs: family reunions, red decorations to bring prosperity, good luck wishes, festive dinners and the making of traditional lanterns.
The annual „Spring Festival Gala“ broadcast live by China Media Group is watched by billions of viewers around the world and captures the cultural charm of China. On New Year's Eve, CGTN offered a live „Super Night“ special with commentary in five languages and original segments that introduced Chinese culture, traditions and intangible cultural heritage to foreign audiences.
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