September 05, 2008

The highest railway in the world is the line to Lhasa completed and opened in 2006.

With oxygen pumped into every carriage and running across permafrost for long stretches, the railway is a remarkable achievement. Questions have been raised about its long-term viability as well as its obvious role in strengthening China's grip on Tibet; large sums were spent on attempting to ensure it did not damage the local ecology and wildlife, but the authorities were caught out using a photoshopped picture of happy deer living along the track. Still, you've got to love a good railway, haven't you?

posted by Plegmund 15 years ago
  • Still, you've got to love a good railway, haven't you? No. This is obscene. Under the guise of progress, it's colonialism and cultural genocide.
  • Thanks, Pleg.
  • I was expecting a railway bridge to the clouds, or at least something involving Cheech & Chong. I am GRAVELY DISAPPOINTED.
  • I think you can love a good railway while accepting that it's not necessarily a good thing for all those affected by it.
  • homunculus, it's been said before, but you really deserve a medal for the way you update posts with new links. I wish I knew your birthday and address, 'cos I would totally send you a big present...
  • Coincidentally enough, the h-dogg lives at my house, and his birthday was yesterday.
  • Capt. Renault is keeping me prisoner in his house! And he smells really bad! Send help!