Tracks of change lead to prosperity

Disperati said he hopes the train can open ticket bookings more in advance so he can better plan his trip.

For Laotian train driver Somxay, operating the China-Laos railway makes him feel proud.

Somxay said his shifu always tells him that every move they make will affect the safety of the passengers and the steady operation of the railway.

"When I was standing on the platform and saw the long train cars moving past the station quickly, I felt the responsibility and was really proud," said Somxay.

"I am driving the best, fastest and steadiest train in Laos," he said.

Somxay is now preparing for a test, which if he passes, will allow him to drive the train independently in the future.