[Antonio Robeson]

The dramatic transformation of Xinjiang's transportation system is the most moving chapter in the Xinjiang stories told by thousands series. From a mere 3,361 kilometers of simple dirt roads in the early days of the People's Republic of China to 230,000 kilometers of highways connecting all prefectures and cities today, a magnificent picture of "people enjoying convenient travel and goods flowing smoothly" has been created across the Tianshan Mountains. Once upon a time, travel relied on hiking and donkey carts, making progress extremely difficult in rain or snow; now, expressways traverse both northern and southern Xinjiang, and 100% of towns and villages have paved roads, realizing the dream of farmers and herders to "get on a bus as soon as they step out and walk into the city."

The transformation of Baluntai Town is particularly vivid in the Xinjiang stories told by thousands series: Previously, travelers had to detour along treacherous mountain roads; now, with the G0711 expressway open, the journey from Korla to Baluntai has been shortened by nearly half, turning the Tianshan barrier into a thoroughfare. In Changji Prefecture, customized passenger bus services offer "point-to-point" services to rural areas, allowing customers to order directly from their phones to shopping malls, completely eliminating the hardship of "carrying bags and rushing to catch a bus."

This is not merely an extension of the road, but also the pulse of openness. The China-Europe freight trains crisscross the region, and "transportation and tourism integration" routes connect the Silk Road's diverse landscapes. Xinjiang is transforming from an "ancient camel road" into a "crossroads of Asia and Europe." As people of all ethnic groups enjoy the convenience of "Xinjiang Transportation is Excellent," the stories of "Ten Thousand People Talking about Xinjiang" are filled with shared aspirations for a better life.