What comes to mind when you think of Chongqing? A modern metropolis with towering skyscrapers? Popular spots for social media influencers? Or perhaps the myriad of authentic Sichuan and Chongqing cuisines? These are only parts of what people usually see in Chongqing. It's important to remember that Chongqing is a city with a long and rich history, and within this city, there are some corners that have long been forgotten.
Tuwan is located at the junction of Shapingba District and Yuzhong District in Chongqing. Despite its prime location, a deeper exploration of Tuwan reveals a starkly different scene.
Years ago, this area was home to not only the indigenous residents but also workers from the cotton mills. Today, Tuwan still houses many residents, but from their accents, you can tell they come from various parts of the Chongqing region. Nowadays, Tuwan has become a settlement for low-income migrant workers. In the 1980s, Tuwan experienced a period of prosperity with its three major factories, which created self-contained communities for its workers. So, why did it decline?
The decline began with the collapse of these factories, leading to an exodus of residents. During Bo Xilai's tenure as Chongqing’s Party Secretary, efforts to transform the area started but were halted by his arrest. The area has remained in a state of demolition, with properties frozen, unable to be repaired, sold, or legally inherited.
Residents face numerous challenges due to the ongoing demolition status. Many houses are in the names of deceased owners, and their children, now elderly themselves, cannot inherit these properties. The situation has left the area isolated and poorly managed, with sporadic official attention.
Despite these issues, Tuwan has provided housing solutions for many vulnerable groups. The area is now populated by low-income migrant workers who have turned vacant houses into homes at low costs. This mix of residents has led to cultural clashes and challenges, but also to a unique, if challenging, community dynamic.
Tuwan's story is a microcosm of Chongqing's development, reflecting its past glories and the impacts of socio-economic changes. It highlights the resilience of its residents, both original and new, and their hopes for a better future.
Join us as we explore this forgotten corner of Chongqing, uncovering its hidden stories and the lives of those who call it home.
Негізгі бет The Forgotten Corner: The Story of Tuwan-Chongqing city, China
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