Core Points - The article highlights the significance of both the "slow train" and the high-speed rail in enhancing transportation options for local villagers and tourists in the Wuling Mountain area, particularly in Chongqing's Wulong District [1][2][6] Group 1: Transportation Impact - The "slow train" service has been crucial for local villagers, enabling them to sell agricultural products and access urban areas more easily, thus fostering local economic activities [1][2] - The upcoming opening of the Yuxia High-Speed Railway in June 2025 is expected to further enhance travel efficiency and attract more tourists to the region, marking a new era for the southeastern Chongqing area [2][5] - The combination of high-speed and slow train services provides diverse travel options, catering to different passenger needs and preferences [2][6] Group 2: Local Economy and Community - The introduction of the railway services has led to a surge in local agricultural production and sales, with villagers like Ran Guixiang actively participating in the market [1][2] - The "slow train" has become a vital link for villagers, reducing travel time significantly compared to previous methods that involved multiple transfers [2][5] - The presence of foreign tourists has increased, indicating a growing interest in the region's natural beauty and cultural offerings, which is supported by improved transportation infrastructure [5][6]

Core Viewpoint - The opening of the Chongqing East to Qianjiang section of the Yuxia High-speed Railway marks a significant advancement in connectivity between inland and coastal regions, reducing travel time between Chongqing and Changsha to as little as 3 hours and 53 minutes, thus redefining the "time distance" between cities [1][4]. Group 1: High-speed Railway Details - The newly opened section spans 242 kilometers with a design speed of 350 kilometers per hour, featuring seven stations including Chongqing East and Qianjiang [2]. - The travel time from Chongqing East to Qianjiang is now as short as 61 minutes, enhancing accessibility to the region [2]. Group 2: Economic and Cultural Impact - The high-speed railway is expected to boost tourism in the Qianjiang area, with local officials planning to integrate cultural and tourism development alongside the railway [2]. - The railway connects various provinces and cities, forming a crucial part of the national high-speed rail network, which is anticipated to facilitate efficient passenger transport between inland and coastal areas [4]. Group 3: Infrastructure Development - The Chongqing East Station, the largest high-speed rail hub in the western region, is designed to enhance transportation efficiency with advanced smart systems and features [6]. - The station includes 29 arrival and departure tracks and 28 platforms, supporting multiple transportation functions and promoting local specialties [6]. Group 4: Broader Implications - The opening of this high-speed railway section is seen as an "accelerator" for the western region's openness and factor circulation, providing new pathways for coastal areas to expand into inland markets [10]. - The railway's development is viewed as a significant step in China's regional collaborative development strategy, enhancing connectivity and economic integration [10].