Zhuoluo Hui Ethnic Town in Lintan County, Gannan
Overview
Zhuolu Hui Township (卓洛回族乡) is located in the northern part of Lintan County (临潭县), Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (甘南藏族自治州), Gansu Province (甘肃省). It is bordered to the east by Shencang Township (申臧乡) and Gancang Village (甘藏村) in Zhuoni County (卓尼县), to the south by Houchuan in Chengguan Town (城关镇), to the west by Bancang Village (板藏村) in Azitang Township (阿子滩乡) and Shubu Township (术布乡) in Lintan County, and to the north by Zhuoni County. The township covers an area of 19.84 square kilometers. As of November 1, 2020, the resident population was 1,693.
The township has a modest commercial presence with four comprehensive stores or supermarkets, each with an area exceeding 50 square meters, as of the end of 2019.
Historical Development
- 1949-1957: The area was governed as part of District 2, including Old City and Chengguan Town (城关镇).
- 1963: Zhuolu Commune (卓洛公社) was established after separating from Chengguan Town.
- 1980: The area was renamed Zhuolu Township (卓洛乡).
- 1985: Zhuolu Hui Township (卓洛回族乡) was officially established.
Administrative Divisions
- 2011: Zhuolu Hui Township was divided into three village committees: Xiayuanzi Village (下园子村), Shangyuanzi Village (上园子村), and Rizha Village (日扎村), with 11 village groups.
- June 2020: The administrative structure included the same three villages: Xiayuanzi Village (下园子村), Shangyuanzi Village (上园子村), and Rizha Village (日扎村). The township government is based in Xiayuanzi Village (下园子村).
- October 31, 2021: The administrative divisions remained the same.
Geographic Environment
Location
Zhuolu Hui Township is situated in the northern part of Lintan County. It is bordered to the east by Shencang Township (申臧乡) and Gancang Village (甘藏村) in Zhuoni County, to the south by Houchuan in Chengguan Town (城关镇), to the west by Bancang Village (板藏村) in Azitang Township (阿子滩乡) and Shubu Township (术布乡) in Lintan County. The total area is 19.84 square kilometers.
Topography
The terrain of Zhuolu Hui Township is characterized by a high west and low east profile. The region features hilly and mountainous terrain. Major mountain ranges include Yaowan Mountain (窑湾山), Dongshan Mountain (垌山), and Rizha Mountain (日扎山). The highest peak, Rizha Mountain, is located in Rizha Village (日扎村) with an elevation of 3,500 meters, while the lowest point is in Xiayuanzi Village (下园子村) with an elevation of 2,800 meters.
Climate
The climate in Zhuolu Hui Township is a plateau continental climate. The average annual temperature is 3.6°C, with January averaging -7.8°C and an extreme minimum temperature of -25.2°C recorded on January 18, 1994. July averages 13.5°C, with an extreme maximum temperature of 29.8°C recorded on July 24, 2000. The area receives an average of 2,392.5 hours of sunshine annually. Average annual precipitation is 502.2 millimeters, with the highest annual rainfall of 644.9 millimeters recorded in 1984 and the lowest of 300.1 millimeters in 1991. Rainfall is concentrated from May to September, with July being the wettest month.
Natural Disasters
Zhuolu Hui Township faces several natural disasters, including drought, flooding, hail, and earthquakes. The most severe hailstorm occurred on August 26, 2009, affecting 716 households and 3,042 people, damaging 2,600 acres of crops and causing a total loss of 800 acres of rapeseed.
Natural Resources
As of 2011, Zhuolu Hui Township had 6,300 acres of arable land, 9,663 acres of usable grassland, and 2,037 acres of forest land.
Population
- 2011: The total population of Zhuolu Hui Township was 3,113.
- 2017: The resident population was 3,042.
- 2018: The registered population was 3,119.
- End of 2019: The registered population was 2,957.
- November 1, 2020: According to the Seventh National Population Census of Lintan County, the resident population was 1,693.
Economy
- 2011: The total agricultural output value was 7.8 million RMB, showing a 10.6% increase from the previous year. The main crops included wheat, barley, and potatoes, with a total production of 721.4 tons. Economic crops such as rapeseed and mustard covered 2,205 acres, while fodder crops like alfalfa, oats, and arrowleaf peas covered 1,512 acres. Livestock farming included cattle, sheep, pigs, and poultry, with 296 pigs, 4,351 sheep, and 2,044 cattle. Afforestation efforts included 200 acres of new forest. The per capita net income of farmers was 3,059 RMB.
- 2018: Zhuolu Hui Township had six comprehensive stores or supermarkets with an area exceeding 50 square meters.
- End of 2019: The township had four comprehensive stores or supermarkets of similar size.
Transportation and Travel Tips
Getting There
- By Road: Zhuolu Hui Township is accessible by road from Lintan County and surrounding areas. The roads leading to the township are generally in good condition, but it’s advisable to check for current road conditions before traveling.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is in Linxia City (临夏市). From there, you can drive or take a bus to the township.
- By Air: The nearest major airport is in Lanzhou (兰州). From Lanzhou Airport, you can drive or take a bus to Zhuolu Hui Township.
Travel Tips
- Accommodation: Accommodation options within the township may be limited. Consider staying in Lintan County or nearby towns for more facilities and visit Zhuolu Hui Township for day trips.
- Local Attractions: Explore the unique Hui culture and the scenic hilly terrain of the area. The natural beauty and cultural heritage provide an enriching experience.
- Weather: Prepare for a plateau climate with significant temperature fluctuations. Bring appropriate clothing for cold winters and varying weather conditions.
- Local Services: Services such as medical facilities and shops may be limited within the township. It’s advisable to stock up on supplies and ensure access to essential services before traveling.
Zhuolu Hui Township offers a distinctive experience with its cultural heritage and natural landscapes, making it a worthwhile destination for those interested in exploring traditional Hui culture and highland scenery.
