The Spring Festival travel frenzy, known as the Chunyun, is in high gear, with China’s transport authorities predicting over 210 million inter-regional trips on February 17. This follows a consistent uptick since the season’s start, testing the limits of the nation’s vast infrastructure.
Railways are pulling out all stops: 281 extra trains will ferry about 6.1 million people nationwide. Special tourist trains are rolling on multiple routes to meet surging demand for local sightseeing. For the first time, 22 fresh lines—including high-speed marvels like Xiangqin, Baoyin, and Xi’an—and more than 50 new stations are operational, expanding reach and capacity exponentially.
Efficiency upgrades are key. Intelligent inspection devices at key hubs have revolutionized security checks. Beijing Station’s tech now scans luggage in 2 seconds versus the previous 6, keeping lines moving briskly even during peaks.
Vulnerable passengers aren’t left behind. Stations offer tailored ‘point-to-point’ services, guiding seniors and kids seamlessly from arrival to departure points.
Roads are jammed with progress: February 17 saw rising volumes, especially new energy vehicles, expected to hit 12 million daily averages—22% of all traffic—over the holiday. Enhanced charging networks across regions are mitigating wait times for EV users.
In the skies, 2.23 million flyers are anticipated on the 17th, with tourist hotspots thriving. Debuts by Guangzhou Baiyun, Sanya Phoenix airports, and new terminals, powered by smart check-ins and automated security, are ensuring swift boardings.
This orchestrated response to Chunyun’s scale highlights technological prowess and meticulous planning, turning potential chaos into coordinated movement for millions heading home or on holiday.