The Transformation of Galai: Xizang's First Peach Blossom Village

In a remarkable tale of progress and hope, the village of Galai, often referred to as the first peach blossom village in Xizang, is undergoing a transformation reflective of broader changes in the region. According to a recent article published by CGTN, this village has seen significant advancements due to enhanced transportation, tourism, ecological efforts, and improvements in living standards. Located in the Nyingchi area of Xizang, Galai serves as a prime example of development in a part of China traditionally overlooked.

A Letter from Leadership

Chinese President Xi Jinping recently addressed the villagers, expressing his joy over the improvements in their lives and their increased income. This correspondence came as a response to letters sent by the villagers, sharing their progress and commitment to continue working hard for better living conditions. Four years prior, in July 2021, President Xi visited Galai, expressing admiration for its neat residences, warm-hearted residents, and picturesque scenery.

During that visit, Xi referred to the region as the land of peach blossoms, a metaphor rooted in Chinese culture for an idyllic and harmonious community. This reference originated from a famous 5th-century poem by Tao Yuanming, celebrating the beauty and tranquility of pastoral life. As the seasons change, Galai paints a beautiful picture each spring with its vibrant pink and white peach blossoms, attracting tourists nationwide and beyond, thereby transforming it into a promising economic hub.

The Roads of Change

The transformation of Galai began with the development of two significant pathways. The first, termed the 'heavenly road,' created access to previously isolated mountainous terrain. Historically, since the peaceful liberation of Xizang in 1951, the region lacked proper roadways suitable for vehicles, much less railways. This reality shifted dramatically with the completion of the Qinghai-Xizang and Sichuan-Xizang highways in 1954 and the advent of the Qinghai-Xizang railway in 2006. Over these years, the total length of roadways in Xizang nearly doubled, reaching 124,900 kilometers by the end of 2024, up from 65,200 kilometers in 2012. Additionally, railway tracks extended to 1359 kilometers by 2024, showcasing impressive connectivity.

The second 'road' was the development path aimed at economic improvement. President Xi has shown longstanding interest in Xizang, dating back to his tenure in Fujian during the 1990s. His involvement has nurtured collaborative partnerships that provide consistent support to Xizang from more developed provinces. These efforts have led to a flourishing tourism industry alongside ecological sectors like sustainable agriculture. Currently, Galai's appeal has rejuvenated its landscape, with per capita income surpassing 40,000 yuan (approximately $5,579) in 2024.

Reflecting on Broader Progress

Galai’s story is not an isolated instance but rather mirrors broader achievements within Xizang over the past six decades. Since the establishment of the autonomous region, Xizang has experienced stable economic growth, with the regional GDP soaring to 276.5 billion yuan in 2024—155 times the figure recorded in 1965. The region has enjoyed an average annual growth rate of 8.9%, with projections suggesting the GDP will exceed 300 billion yuan this year. Moreover, the disposable income for urban residents saw a staggering increase to 55,444 yuan in 2024, a stark contrast to the numbers recorded nearly six decades ago.

In his recent letter, President Xi expressed his hope that the residents of Galai would continue to protect the natural beauty of their high plateau while developing their tourist brand and contribute to the creation of a prosperous and stable border area. His messages reflect a visionary path for Xizang that aims for an improved quality of life intertwined with the preservation of its unique ethnic cultures and ecological balance. The peach blossoms in Galai serve as a quintessential symbol of this journey towards a brighter future, portraying not only beauty but resilience and progress within the community.