Tibet is administered as an autonomous region of China, a status which is recognised by most countries of the world. However, a small but vociferous group of activists continues to seek complete independence for the country, under the rule of the Dalai Lama who, in the aftermath of the Chinese military occupation in the 1950s, set up a Government of Tibet in Exile to look after the interests of his followers and other Tibetans who, for whatever reason, were excluded from their home country.
For many years there were no railways in Tibet, but in 2006 an 1100km standard (1435mm) gauge line was opened from the western Chinese town of Xining to the Tibetan capital at Lhasa. The summit of the line is 15640 ft (4767 m) above sea level, making it the highest standard gauge main line in the world. Oxygen is provided for train passengers! The line is operated by China Railways. In addition to regular passenger and freight services, the line is used by luxury tourist cruise trains.
An extension in under construction southwards from Lhasa for a further 260km to Tibet's second city, Xigazê. Opening is planned for 2014.
© 2005-2011
Glyn Williams
Flag image from Wikipedia
