Ever since the entire Qinghai-Tibet Railway opened to traffic in 2006, the line has served as a mirror reflecting how the outside world views Tibet. Supporters argue that it broke the region's long-standing geographical isolation, boosting economic prosperity and interpersonal exchanges; meanwhile, critics and the exile community often worry that large-scale transport connectivity will accelerate the influx of mainland populations, commercial pressures on traditional Tibetan culture, and heavy strain on the plateau’s fragile ecological environment.