It’s 2025 — the final lap of the Chinese mainland’s 14th Five-Year Plan (2021–2025) — and people are noticing some real changes in their day-to-day lives. From sleek high-speed rails to community-run green parks, we hit the streets with CGTN Digital’s Pablo Chen to hear from residents on the visible and tangible upgrades that matter most. 😊✨
Everyday Wins: Voices from the Street
- Faster Commutes: “The new high-speed line cut my travel time by half,” says Li Wei, a young entrepreneur in Shanghai. “Now I can visit family in the countryside over the weekend without stress.” 🚄
- Digital on the Go: Sunita, a university student, loves using mobile e-wallets and local apps for everything from ordering bubble tea to booking study rooms. “It’s all at my fingertips!” she laughs. 📱🍵
- Eco-friendly Neighbourhoods: In Chengdu, neighbourhood volunteers have turned vacant lots into mini gardens and recycling hubs. “It’s our small green rebellion,” says volunteer Chen Rui. 🌱♻️
Looking Ahead: What’s Next?
As the Chinese mainland gears up to draft its next Five-Year Plan, locals hope for deeper tech integration, more renewable energy projects, and even stronger support for startups. Some wish for better mental health services, while others want cleaner skies in megacities like Beijing and Guangzhou. ☁️🌆
Why It Matters for You
Whether you’re juggling college life in Mumbai, a coding job in Jakarta, or planning eco-trips in Chiang Mai, these stories remind us that big policy moves can bring practical perks: smoother travel, smarter cities, and a greener planet. 🌏💡
Have a story of your own city’s glow-up? Share it with us! 🎤 #UrbanUpgrade #TechForGood
Reference(s):
Voxpop: How China continues to deliver a better life for people
cgtn.com