The Yanshiping Passenger Station in Amdo county of the Xizang autonomous region began operation on Thursday, becoming the highest station along the Qinghai-Xizang Railway at a staggering altitude of 4,721 meters. [Photo proved to chinadaily.com.cn]

"This contributes not only to the development of plateau tourism but also to the quality of life for approximately 10,000 residents in the surrounding area by improving access to healthcare, education, and employment," said Cheng.

Dekyi Drolkar, a local and one of the first passengers to use the service, said traveling is now much easier. What used to cost 140 yuan ($19) and 12 hours by car now takes just 4 hours by train for 57 yuan.