Growing up on the windswept grasslands of Lhorong County in Qamdo, Sonam Wangdrak spent his days tending sheep under an endless sky. Yet his mind was always on the iron rails of a distant world.
This year, after years of studying and intensive training, Sonam realized that dream. He took the controls as the inaugural driver on the Lhasa-Nyingchi route, the Xizang Autonomous Region’s first electrified railway and the world’s highest.
Winding through towering peaks and fragile permafrost, the new line stands as a feat of engineering and a model of sustainable innovation. By swapping diesel for electric power, it cuts travel time and reduces carbon emissions, connecting remote communities to the region’s vibrant culture and natural wonders.
For travellers and digital nomads, the Lhasa-Nyingchi railway opens a gateway to immersive journeys—from ancient monasteries to alpine forests—while setting a new standard for eco-friendly transport at high altitude.
Sonam’s journey from shepherd boy to train driver is a testament to determination and ingenuity. As he guides his train along the sky-high tracks, he carries not just passengers, but the aspirations of a generation inspired by dreams and driven by change.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
