"Home Express" helps migrant workers home

Migrant workers make up the bulk of passengers during China’s spring festival travel rush. In Dalian city of Liaoning province, the local railway bureau has launched a special program named home express, helping thousands of migrant workers make their way back home.

China’s northeastern Dalian port is the host of the yearly Davos Forum. Behind the fast economic boom of the region are approximately 630 thousand migrant workers contributing to the city’s modernization. And their journey home for Spring Festival this year is something special.

Shenyang railway bureau is in charge of Dalian’s train transportation. It has launched a “Home Express” program for migrant workers, ensuring them a family reunion just in time.

Han Jiancheng, vice chief of Dalian Railway Station, said, “Most of the migrant workers need to get back home a week ahead of the Spring Festival. Starting January 15th, 56 express trains will be launched within 6 days especially dedicated to migrant workers heading to 10 different destinations. This is the sixth year for Shenyang Railway Bureau to arrange such activities.”

But additional trains alone are not enough. Migrant workers often face difficulties using the on-line and telephone ticket booking systems. To solve the problem, Shenyang railway bureau joined forces with Dalian city workers’ union. They informed the city’s construction cooperations -- where most of the migrant workers work -- to purchase group train tickets. 60 thousand train tickets were sold to 485 companies via this method.

Zhou Hong, Dalian Railway Ticket Office, said, “Apart from group buying, we also set up ticket booths and waiting lounges for migrant workers at the station. Meanwhile, green passages enabling them to board the train first are opened. These services are only dedicated to migrant workers.”

A launch ceremony was held at Dalian railway station before the departure of the first “Home Express”. Free water and snacks were offered to the migrant workers.

Zhu Jun, from Dalian Railway Bureau, said, “January 15th to 20th, is the travel peak time for migrant workers. We will do our best to ensure all 56 Home Express trains travel safely and bring an unforgettable memory for the hardworking workers.”

On the train, laughter filled the air. Various activities are held onboard to entertain the passengers, while safety measures are being reminded.

A migrant worker said, “I’m very happy to have this opportunity to travel on the Home Express. We are very thankful to the railway bureau for arranging this program. It really helped and benefited us.”

I’m now on Home Express train L833. Its final destination is Jiamusi, which is 1,400 kilometers away from Dalian. The 20 hour train ride will carry 1,200 migrant workers back home. This train is specially decorated with auspicious paper-cuts, bearing wishes for a joyful journey home to all the passengers.