Perched atop a 1,000-meter-high cliff in the Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan Province, Atulie’er was once known as the “cliff village” of China. For generations, villagers navigated treacherous rattan ladders to connect with the world below, symbolizing both their isolation and resilience.
In 2016, the perilous rattan ladders were replaced with sturdier steel ones, improving safety but not fully addressing the community’s seclusion. The ascent and descent remained a daunting daily challenge, limiting access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
Recognizing these hardships, authorities facilitated the relocation of the entire village to the county seat in 2020. This move wasn’t just a change of address but a significant step toward improved living standards and opportunities for the Atulie’er community.
Meanwhile, the original cliffside village found new purpose. The abandoned homes and dramatic landscapes have been transformed into a base for cultivating local specialties, tapping into the region’s agricultural potential. Moreover, former villagers have embraced modern technology, using livestreaming platforms to showcase their heritage and products to a global audience.
With the steel ladder as an iconic backdrop, these livestreams have not only boosted incomes but also preserved the cultural narrative of Atulie’er. The villagers’ adaptation reflects a broader trend in rural China, where technology bridges the gap between remote communities and the wider world.
The story of Atulie’er is a testament to the transformative power of infrastructure development and digital innovation. From the precarious rattan ladders to engaging online platforms, the village has journeyed from isolation to integration, illustrating the dynamic changes sweeping across rural Asia.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
