China is preparing for an unprecedented surge in travel as it anticipates around 9 billion inter-regional trips during the upcoming Spring Festival travel rush, according to a national teleconference held on Tuesday.
This staggering figure represents a 7 percent increase from the previous peak season and is expected to set a new record for the world’s largest annual human migration.
The Spring Festival travel rush, known locally as “Chunyun,” is a period of heightened transportation activity as millions of people journey home for family reunions. In 2025, Chunyun will span from January 14 to February 22, coinciding with the Lunar New Year celebrations.
Cross-regional rail journeys and civil aviation passenger trips are also projected to reach new heights, with estimates of 510 million and 90 million trips respectively.
In response to the anticipated surge, eight government departments, including the Ministry of Transport, have released an action plan aimed at ensuring safety, smooth operations, and enhanced services during the travel rush.
The plan outlines measures to improve charging facilities for new energy vehicles (NEVs), a significant move given the increasing popularity of NEVs in China. Efforts will be made to add more charging stations in busy service areas and provide guidance to drivers for orderly parking and charging during peak periods.
The Spring Festival, China’s most significant traditional holiday, will fall on January 29, 2025. It is a time when families come together, and the massive movement of people reflects the cultural importance of the festival.
As China continues to develop its transportation infrastructure and services, the country is gearing up to accommodate the growing number of travelers, ensuring that the journey home is a safe and pleasant experience for all.
Reference(s):
China expects 9 billion trips during Spring Festival travel rush
cgtn.com
