China’s extensive railway network is making comprehensive preparations for the upcoming Spring Festival travel period, known as Chunyun, which represents the world’s largest annual human migration. The 2026 travel rush is scheduled to commence on February 2 and conclude on March 13, spanning a total of 40 days of intensified transportation activity.
In anticipation of the massive passenger flow, railway maintenance crews across the country are implementing rigorous safety protocols. At the Taiyuan Electric Multiple Unit Depot in Shanxi province, mechanics conducted thorough inspections on EMU trains during the evening of January 22. These meticulous examinations ensure that all rolling stock meets the highest safety standards for the demanding travel period ahead.
The Spring Festival tradition, deeply rooted in Chinese culture, sees hundreds of millions of citizens journeying to reunite with family members for Lunar New Year celebrations. This mass migration presents extraordinary logistical challenges for transportation authorities, who must coordinate additional services while maintaining regular operations.
Railway authorities have developed sophisticated contingency plans to manage the anticipated surge in passenger numbers. These measures include deploying reserve trains, optimizing scheduling efficiency, and enhancing station management procedures. Technological advancements in ticketing systems and real-time monitoring will further support the smooth operation of transportation networks during this critical period.
The preparation efforts extend beyond mechanical maintenance to encompass comprehensive staff training, emergency response drills, and coordinated planning with local authorities to ensure passenger safety and comfort throughout the travel rush.