"All passengers on board are railway workers, some of whom work hundreds of kilometers away from home. I always keep the carriage clean to provide a little comfort for them during long commuting time," said train attendant Gong Meirong.

To ensure the safe operation of the Dunhuang Railway during the Spring Festival travel rush, station chief Yang Zhiwei and duty officer Zhu Changcheng spent the holiday at the train's terminal, Sugan Lake Station, sitting at an altitude of 2,880 meters. They prepared fresh food, lanterns and Spring Festival couplets to add a festive atmosphere, all of which were brought by the mini-train.

Yang and Zhu both come from Jiayuguan city, Gansu province, nearly 700 km away from the station. Braving freezing temperatures and oxygen deprivation, they remain dedicated to their mission.

"The safe operation of the Dunhuang Railway makes every effort worthwhile," said Yang.