在春运，看见行进的中国

Core Viewpoint - The upcoming 2026 Spring Festival travel season is expected to witness the largest scale of population migration globally, emphasizing the importance of safe and smooth travel for the public [1] Group 1: Changes in Railway Operations - The Beijing West Railway Station has evolved significantly since its opening in 1996, expanding from two initial lines to 11 lines by 2025, with train operations increasing from 27 pairs to 193 pairs [3] - Passenger volume at Beijing West Station is projected to rise from 8.26 million in 1996 to 65.39 million by 2025, reflecting the growth of China's railway network from 22,000 kilometers in 1949 to 165,000 kilometers today, with high-speed rail exceeding 50,000 kilometers [3] Group 2: Technological Advancements in Ticketing - The introduction of online ticketing through the 12306 website has transformed the ticket purchasing process, with online sales accounting for over 90% during the 2026 Spring Festival, compared to 78% in 2015 [4] - The number of ticket counters at Beijing West Station has decreased from five to two, with only 20 counters remaining, indicating a shift towards digital solutions [4] Group 3: Enhanced Customer Service - The railway staff now focus on personalized service, especially for elderly passengers who may struggle with online ticketing, showcasing a shift from speed to customer care [4] - Technological tools such as big data and AI are being utilized to improve operational efficiency and customer experience, with real-time updates on passenger flow and train schedules [5][6]