Vientiane: The China-Laos Railway’s Lao section has experienced a 44.4% increase in passenger numbers during the first 10 months of 2024, with a total of 3 million passengers transported, as reported by Laos-China Railway Co., Ltd. (LCRC) on November 5.

According to Lao News Agency, from January 1 to November 4, over 2.8 million passengers traveled within Laos, while 108,000 utilized cross-border train services. The significant rise in passenger numbers is attributed to several factors, including Laos’ ASEAN chairmanship, the Visit Laos Year 2024 campaign, and the implementation of visa-free access for Chinese visitors.

To meet the increasing demand, LCRC has taken measures such as adjusting train schedules, adding more trains during peak travel times, and enhancing ticketing and passenger services. Since its inception in December 2021, the railway has emerged as a preferred mode of transport, offering affordable and comfortable travel options.