China Opens Dradmuok Station: The Highest Passenger Railway Station on the Qinghai-Tibet Line (4,721m)

The Dradmuok Railway Station, located on the Qinghai-Tibet Railway line, began passenger services today (Thursday). At an elevation of 4,721 meters, Dradmuok officially becomes the highest passenger station along this line on the "Roof of the World."

Opening Details and Benefits:

• Location and Elevation: The station is situated in Dradmuok township in the Xizang (Tibet) Autonomous Region, at an elevation of 4,721 meters.

• Official Launch: Over 50 passengers boarded the train (Z9817) heading to Lhasa (Xizang's capital) at around 11 AM, marking the station's inauguration for passenger service.

• Background: Dradmuok was previously an unstaffed station. It was upgraded in response to increasing travel demand and the development of tourism in the surrounding area, which includes attractions like the Tanggula mountain range.

• Local Impact:

  • Time Saving: A local resident noted that the train cuts the journey time to the county seat from over four hours by bus to about two hours.

  • Cost Saving: The train ticket costs 28.5 Yuan (about $4 USD), significantly less than the 70 Yuan bus fare.

• Expected Beneficiaries: More than 10,000 residents from 25 nearby villages, in addition to tourists, are expected to benefit. The station is also set to boost local catering and accommodation sectors.

Context of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway:

The line, connecting Lhasa and Xining (Qinghai's capital), began operation in July 2006, ending the history of the Xizang region without rail access.