Tibetans Embrace "Lingka" Tradition as Lhasa Transforms into Lush Oasis

Over the past few decades, the Xizang Autonomous Region of China has made significant efforts to conserve and restore its ecology, adding greenery and beauty to the snowy plateau. This is particularly evident in the capital city of Lhasa, where a large-scale ecological restoration project was launched in 2021.

The project aims to green an area totaling 137,300 hectares over the next 10 years, transforming Lhasa into a more ecologically friendly and livable city. This ambitious effort has already seen impressive results, with over 71,330 hectares of mountains successfully afforested and more than 120 million saplings planted, achieving a survival rate of over 85%.

One of the key innovations driving this project is the use of drones to transport and plant the saplings. This revolutionary method has made the process five to eight times more efficient than the traditional method of using mules or horses. As a result, the greenery in Lhasa is becoming increasingly visible, and the city's residents are embracing the "lingka" tradition of outdoor picnics and gatherings more than ever before.

Lingka, a Tibetan term that traditionally referred to gardens, now encompasses a wide range of outdoor activities, from family outings to community events. Residents like Dradul are enjoying lingka along the banks of the Lhasa River, singing songs and playing games with friends and family. This resurgence of the lingka tradition is not only a reflection of Lhasa's growing greenery but also a testament to the city's efforts to improve the well-being of its local population.

As the Xizang Autonomous Region celebrates its 60th anniversary, the transformation of Lhasa serves as a shining example of how the concept of "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets" is being put into practice, benefiting both the environment and the people who call this region home.