A rail system in Gengma County, Yunnan Province, integrates smart "mini trains" for agricultural use, altering traditional farm operations. These trains expedite vegetable transport and reduce labor costs in Mengding Town's vegetable growing base. Workers harvest eggplants, loading them onto unmanned trains, which are remotely controlled to deliver produce directly to packaging workshops.
A local worker noted, "We've been working in the eggplant fields for over four years. In the past, we had to carry the vegetables by hand, which was toilsome. Now, with the mini train, it's much more convenient."
The "mini train" is a narrow single-track vehicle designed for rugged terrains. It features an electric motor, flat cargo platforms, and a modern track system, transporting up to 200 kilograms. Advanced functions like stable uphill and downhill transport and emergency braking enable it to navigate complex terrains, transporting vegetables, fertilizers, and supplies efficiently.
Li Yan, an eggplant grower, stated, "The transport works well whether it's rainy or sunny. We've reduced the need for workers by half compared to before. My farm spans three hectares, and the mini train can reach every corner of it."
In Gengma County, mechanization challenges in hilly regions are addressed by these innovations. Smart farming equipment, including drones and mini trains, transforms agricultural practices and boosts farmers' incomes. Mengding Town has over 93,000 hectares of vegetable production, yielding 480,000 tons annually, valued at 2.5 billion yuan.
Chen Juan, a senior agricultural specialist, said, "Since its introduction in 2021, over 60 farms in Mengding have adopted mini trains to transport vegetables from the fields to designated packaging sites. We will further invest in agricultural technology and promote its application to benefit even more farmers."
Source: Bastille Post