As spring arrives, 150 households in Qusum County, Shannan City, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, have moved into new homes, fulfilling a long-standing promise to relocate residents from remote mountain areas.

Among them is Urgyen Tsering, a local resident who spoke at the ceremony. "Our old mud-brick houses were on steep slopes, leaking in both winter and summer. Leaving the mountains for a better life has been our dream for generations," he said.

The former homes in Qusum Town and surrounding areas, built on fragile terrain, often suffered from cracked walls and sinking foundations. The new resettlement site, built with a total investment of 89.47 million yuan (≈13 million USD), provides reliable access to water, electricity, roads, and internet. The sturdy, warm homes mark the beginning of a more comfortable life.

During construction, officials consulted residents on details such as house layouts, sunshades, and drainage systems. "We were worried the new house wouldn't suit us. Now that we've moved in, it's spacious and bright, and utilities are convenient. Our whole family is satisfied," said Yangjen Drolkar, an elderly Party member from Qusum Town, holding the hand of the staff.

Stable housing is a cornerstone of rural revitalization. In recent years, Qusum County has focused on building livable, prosperous villages. Entire villages or groups in high-risk and marginal areas have been relocated to safer, well-equipped sites with modern amenities, including separate livestock shelters, water supply, drainage, and electricity. Additionally, the county implemented a housing subsidy plan, offering 50,000 yuan (≈7,236 USD) for standardized self-built homes and 20,000 yuan (≈2,894 USD) for scattered self-builds, fully utilizing public funds to support residents in building their communities.

"Public satisfaction is our ultimate goal," said Si Gangcun, Party secretary of Qusum County. "The successful relocation reflects not only an achievement in livelihood projects but also a shared commitment between the Party and the people."

Reporter: Tenzin Phuntsog 

Translator: Yang Xiaofeng, Zhi Xinghua 

Review: Hu Rongguo, Drakpa Wangchen