Ever dreamed of turning a childhood passion into a reality? That’s exactly what Sonam Wangdrak did! 🐑🚆
Born on the vast grasslands of Lhorong County in Qamdo, Xizang Autonomous Region, Sonam spent his days herding yaks and listening to stories of mighty locomotives. As a kid, he’d watch freight trains thunder through distant valleys, dreaming of the day he’d take the driver’s seat.
Fast forward to 2025: earlier this year, Sonam became the inaugural driver on the new Lhasa–Nyingchi route, Xizang’s first—and the world’s highest—fully electrified railway. Electrified trains are powered by overhead cables, cutting out diesel engines, reducing pollution, and offering smoother, faster rides. 🌱⚡
At altitudes above 3,800 meters, the line threads through towering peaks and rivers, linking remote communities and slashing travel time between Lhasa and Nyingchi. Beyond the stunning views—think prayer flags fluttering against snow-capped ranges—this rail link boosts local tourism, creates new jobs, and brings fresh opportunities to young people across the region.
Sonam’s journey from a shepherd boy to a trailblazing train driver is a testament to grit, passion, and the power of modern technology. For young adults in South and Southeast Asia, his story is proof that no dream is too big—whether you’re coding the next big app, launching a startup, or driving the world’s highest railway, the sky isn’t the limit; it’s just the beginning. 🚀
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
