The Blossoming Transformation of Galai Village in Xizang

In the vibrant region of Xizang, Galai Village stands out as the "first peach blossom village" emblematic of the transformative progress within this remote area. Once isolated, the village has blossomed due to advancements in transportation and a flourishing tourism industry that reflect broader changes over the last six decades in Xizang.

In a recent correspondence with the villagers, Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed his delight at the community's newfound prosperity and assured support for their aspirations. His message echoed sentiments from his visit to Galai in July 2021, where he marveled at the village's tidy homes and the warm hospitality of its residents.

The term "Peach Blossom Land" is steeped in Chinese cultural significance, referring to a utopian society based on a tale by the famous poet Tao Yuanming from the 5th century. Each spring, Galai bursts forth in shades of pink and white, attracting tourists from across China and beyond, transforming it from a forgotten settlement into a thriving destination.

A Journey through Transformation

The narrative of Galai’s transformation is encapsulated by two symbolic roads that represent its journey towards modernization. The first is the "Heavenly Road" leading to the snow-covered plateau. Prior to 1951, no roads were suitable for vehicles, let alone a railway. However, significant improvements began with the completion of the Qinghai-Xizang and Sichuan-Xizang highways in 1954, paving the way for the Qinghai-Xizang railway which opened in 2006.

As of the end of 2024, the road network in Xizang almost doubled, reaching 124,900 km since 2012, alongside an increase in operational railway lines. Moreover, 183 flight routes connected Xizang to 78 domestic and international cities, illustrating the enhanced accessibility of this once-inaccessible region.

The second road, termed the "Path of Prosperity," focuses on economic development. Xi Jinping has long shown a commitment to Xizang, linking his efforts back to his tenure in Fujian in the 1990s. Through a unique partnership program, Fujian and Nyingchi initiated a supportive relationship aimed at providing resources and continuous assistance to remote areas.

In 2011, Xi's participation in the 60th-anniversary celebration of Xizang's peaceful liberation highlighted his encouragement for locals to develop tourism sustainably while protecting the environment. Now, Galai thrives, interweaving tourism with sustainable practices like ecological farming. The rejuvenated village reflects a per capita income exceeding 40,000 Yuan (approximately $5,579) in 2024.

A Snapshot of Wider Progress

The achievements seen in Galai resonate with broader success throughout Xizang, showcasing significant socio-economic advancements since the Autonomous Region's establishment. The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Xizang reached 276.5 billion Yuan in 2024, a striking increase from its 1965 numbers. The region benefits from consistent growth, achieving an average annual increase of 8.9% with projections above 300 billion Yuan for the current year. Additionally, the average income for urban residents reached 55,444 Yuan in 2024, exemplifying considerable economic transformation.

In his recent correspondence, Xi Jinping highlighted his hope for Galai's residents to continue protecting the highland's natural beauty, develop the tourism brand further, and contribute to building a prosperous and stable border region. His vision emphasizes a symbiotic relationship between improved living standards and the preservation of the unique ethnic culture and ecology that define Xizang.

In conclusion, the story of Galai Village serves as a testament to Xizang's ongoing evolution, rooted in both its rich heritage and the promise of a flourishing future for its inhabitants.