Beijing: China's railway passenger trips increased by 4.7 percent year on year to 726 million during the first two months of 2025, hitting an all-time high, China's railway operator said Monday. This significant growth in railway travel was largely driven by the annual Spring Festival travel rush, resulting in a surge in cross-regional population movement.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the increase in railway passenger volume was attributed to the overlapping travel schedules of students, workers, and tourists visiting their families or exploring new destinations. This convergence contributed to the substantial rise in passenger numbers.

To accommodate the growing travel demand, an average of 11,605 passenger trains were operated daily during the period, marking an 8.7 percent increase compared to the previous year. The improvements in China's railway services, including convenient transfers at 120 stations and internet food-ordering services at 89 stations, have enhanced the overall passenger experience.

Additionally, outbound passenger trips saw significant growth. The China-Laos Railway carried 59,000 cross-border passengers during the two-month period, reflecting a 57.9 percent increase year on year. The consistent operation of international passenger trains between China-Mongolia and China-Russia has facilitated cross-border exchanges and boosted tourism consumption.