CGTN's series entitled "A Journey to Prosperity" marks the 60th anniversary of the founding of Xizang Autonomous Region, and recounts the modernization progress over the past six decades. In recent years, strengthened ecological conservation efforts have transformed the Lhalu Wetland National Nature Reserve of Lhasa in southwest China's Xizang into a paradise for rare birds and a cherished retreat for locals. CGTN's Xing Ruinan takes you inside this breathtaking high-altitude wetland.

This is the Lhalu Wetland National Nature Reserve, located in the heart of Lhasa City. As the world's highest-altitude and largest urban inland natural wetland, it is hailed as "the Lung of Lhasa."

XING RUINAN Lhasa "What a nice view! Behind me, flocks of birds glide across shimmering waters, while the majestic Potala Palace rises in the distance. The Lhalu Wetland really draws a fine line here, between the urban city life and a natural paradise."

However, what we see today is the result of thirty years of determined ecological restoration. Rewind to the 1980s, unchecked grazing, urban sprawl, and sewage pollution shrank Lhalu wetland by 20 percent.

NGAWANG TASHI Management Bureau Lhalu Wetland National Nature Reserve "Lhalu Wetland had suffered severe degradation from overgrazing and desertification. Through strong support from the central and regional governments, along with comprehensive ecological conservation projects, it has undergone remarkable rehabilitation."

The turnaround began in 1995 with China's first alpine wetland rescue mission. Over 8.5 billion yuan was invested across four phases to relocate communities and rebuild ecosystems – efforts that raised the wetland's vegetation coverage from just 60 percent to over 95 percent today.

REPORTER: "I heard you've worked here for nearly 20 years?"

PHURBU TASHI Management Bureau Lhalu Wetland National Nature Reserve "Yes."

REPORTER: "Could you describe your daily work?"

RANGER: "We conduct year-round patrols. In summer, we focus on visitor safety, while winter shifts emphasize fire prevention and disaster control."

REPORTER: "What ecological changes have you observed over the years?"

RANGER: "The water quality has improved dramatically, attracting numerous bird species. We currently protect over 200 animal species, including 167 bird varieties. The most notable is the black-necked crane."

Public engagement initiatives, including conservation educational programs and open walking trails, have made Lhalu wetland a perfect getaway destination for the locals.

NGAWANG TASHI Management Bureau Lhalu Wetland National Nature Reserve "The wetland's preservation has not only significantly improved Lhasa's air quality and local ecosystem, but also created a beautiful recreational space for residents and visitors alike. These visits naturally enhance public awareness about ecological protection."

Local authorities have made it clear – protecting ecosystems like this isn't just policy, it's a fundamental commitment to Xizang's future.

XING RUINAN Lhasa "From a fragile ecosystem to a thriving bird sanctuary, Lhalu Wetland embodies Xizang's commitment to ecological progress. Here, the story of humans and nature coexisting in harmony continues to unfold. This is Xing Ruinan, reporting from Lhasa."