Xinjiang Herders Embrace Mechanization in Seasonal Livestock Migration
From mid-March to mid-April, millions of livestock in the Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region begin their annual journey from winter pastures to spring grasslands. This transitional season, once marked by arduous treks across vast terrains, is undergoing a transformative shift towards mechanization.
The local government has been proactive in supporting herders during this critical period. Sheep-drawn vehicles are arranged in advance, and service stations are established along migration routes to provide essential supplies. These efforts ensure that herders and their livestock have the resources they need for a safe and efficient transition.
In recent years, the methods of livestock migration have evolved significantly. Traditionally, entire families would embark on the journey together, carrying their belongings and guiding their flocks over several days. Now, the process has become more streamlined. Often, a single herder, sometimes accompanied by a horse, can oversee the migration of a group of sheep.
This shift has allowed the elderly and children to remain in settled communities, where they have better access to education and healthcare services. The separation of family from the migration process has had positive social impacts, fostering community stability and improving quality of life.
Perhaps the most notable change is the increasing preference for mechanized migration. Many herders now opt to transport their flocks by truck, a method that drastically reduces the journey time from several days to just one. This not only minimizes the physical strain on both herders and livestock but also reduces the risks associated with long-distance travel.
“Mechanized migration has revolutionized our way of life,” says Abdurrahman, a herder from the region. “It saves time, and our sheep are less stressed. We can focus more on their well-being and on our families.”
The trend towards mechanization reflects broader changes in the region’s approach to traditional practices. By embracing modern methods, herders in the Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture are enhancing productivity and improving their quality of life while preserving the cultural heritage of livestock rearing.
As Xinjiang continues to develop its infrastructure and support for rural communities, the fusion of tradition and modernity exemplified by these herders offers a promising model for sustainable development in pastoral regions.
Reference(s):
Live: Transforming livestock in Xinjiang with mechanized transition
cgtn.com
