Chongqing - In the early hours of October 23, the banks of the Yangtze River by Zhongba Island in Chongqing's Banan District buzzed with life. Local farmers unloaded fresh produce—water spinach, scallions, eggplants—from tricycles and baskets, preparing to load them onto the morning ferry. As the "Zhengfu No. 2" ferry's lights flicked on at 6:20 a.m., it was time to set sail, marking another journey of the iconic “Pack Basket Ferry Route.”

On the morning of October 23, 2024, at 6:28 a.m., villagers wait at the Zhongba Island riverbank pier in Dazhong Village, Banan District, Chongqing, with their baskets full of fresh produce as the "Zhengfu No. 2" ferry approaches. (Photo/Xie Zhiqiang, Visual Chongqing)

For over 65 years, this ferry route has been the lifeline of Zhongba Island’s 4,000 residents, carrying people and produce to and from the city. Known as the “Pack Basket Ferry,” this route began with small wooden boats and now operates a modern passenger ferry. It remains the only way off the island for its residents, symbolizing a unique bridge between rural village life and the urban marketplace.

A day in the life of Chongqing’s river farmers

Farmers begin their work in the fields before dawn, harvesting fresh produce to sell at nearby markets. Wan Xiantian, a 65-year-old farmer, carries his freshly picked chives in a basket on his back, heading to catch the early ferry. Like many island farmers, he relies on the ferry to reach local markets, where his chives fetch around 10 yuan per kilogram. 

On the morning of October 23, 2024, at 6:40 a.m., villagers disembark in an orderly fashion at Daxikou Pier in Banan District, Chongqing. (Photo/Xie Zhiqiang, Visual Chongqing)

Zhang Qianwei, a larger-scale farmer, harvests up to 40,000 kilograms of vegetables each year, earning an annual income of around 200,000 yuan. The ferry keeps us connected and ensures our produce stays fresh,” he explains, adding that recent road improvements along the river have made the journey safer and more orderly for everyone.

A lifeline for 65 years

The "Pack Basket Ferry Route" has been a constant in the lives of island residents since 1959. Initially operated by Yi Zhengfu, who rowed the original boat by hand, the ferry service was passed down to his two sons, Yi Zhonglin and Yi Zhongrong. In 2019, the route received government funding of 550,000 yuan annually, ensuring it could continue serving the community.

On October 23, 2024, at the Daxikou Pier in Banan District, Chongqing, Yi Zhongrong (left) and Yi Zhonglin (right) pose with their ferry. (Photo/Xie Zhiqian, Visual Chongqing)

For the Yi brothers, maintaining the ferry is more than a job; it's a responsibility. “Our father’s last wish was to keep this service going, ensuring the safety and convenience of our neighbors,” says Yi Zhonglin, who pilots the ferry daily. Now known as "Zhengfu No. 2," named after their father, the ferry is equipped to carry 50 passengers and continues to run according to schedule, even if only one passenger is onboard.

Safety and community commitment

Safety remains paramount for the Yi brothers, who meticulously check the ferry each morning. The local government and maritime authorities conduct regular safety inspections and provide emergency training to ensure smooth operations. According to local officials, safety checks and onboard training are conducted regularly to enhance the crew's readiness.

On the morning of October 23, 2024, at 6:35 a.m., the "Zhengfu No. 2" ferry transports villagers and their produce across the river from Zhongba Island in Banan District, Chongqing. (Photo/Xie Zhiqiang, Visual Chongqing)

As the island's only transport link, "Zhengfu No. 2" has never missed a day or recorded a safety incident. And while tourists are beginning to explore the area, drawn by its improved facilities and scenic views, the Yi brothers’ commitment to their neighbors has remained steadfast.

"Sixty-five years, two generations, and not a single holiday," shares Luo Zemei, a local resident. “Even during Chinese New Year, they’re here on the river. It’s this dedication that truly makes them the heartbeat of Zhongba Island.”

(Zhu Ting, Xie Zhiqiang, and Zhang Zhi, reporters from Chongqing Daily, contributed the Chinese version of this report.)