Qinghai-Tibet railway, world’s highest, begins operation in 2006 – SCMP archive

The Qinghai-Tibet railway, the world’s highest, began operation in 2006 with the first train departing Beijing to Lhasa, carrying 600 passengers and 100 journalists. The railway also launched services from Golmud and Chengdu, offering residents like Lhasa student Bianba more affordable travel opportunities.