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CGTN: More than a journey: How Spring Festival travel rush reflects a changing China
Globenewswire· 2026-02-03 04:07
Core Insights - The 2026 Spring Festival travel rush, known as chunyun, begins on February 2 and lasts for 40 days, concluding on March 13, with an estimated 9.5 billion inter-regional passenger trips expected during this period [3][4]. Logistics and Infrastructure - The 2026 chunyun is characterized by a significant reliance on self-driving vehicles, projected to account for approximately 80% of all trips, while rail and civil aviation are anticipated to reach record passenger volumes of 540 million and 95 million, respectively [5]. - The Ministry of Transport has expanded the highway charging network to 71,500 charging points to support the increase in electric vehicles, with real-time monitoring available through a mini-program [6]. - China's railway system, enhanced by a high-speed network exceeding 50,000 kilometers, employs advanced ticketing and infrastructure to facilitate a high-capacity travel experience [7]. - Safety measures include pre-positioned de-icing equipment and specialized rescue teams in response to potential cold weather disruptions, coordinated by over 20 government departments [8]. Passenger Services - The 2026 travel rush introduces "heartwarming services" aimed at enhancing passenger comfort, transforming the migration experience into a more personalized journey [9]. - The expansion of "quiet carriages" on over 8,000 high-speed trains provides a peaceful environment for travelers, with broadcast volumes capped at 40% and staff offering silent service and entertainment for children [10]. - "Silver Hair" services at major airports and rail stations prioritize ease of travel for seniors, with special provisions for those aged 80 and above [11]. - The introduction of "Pet Rail" services in Henan Province allows families to travel with pets, expanding from one to four stations for specialized transport [12].