LHASA, Jan. 9 -- Tibet Autonomous Region in southwest China will build 20 distinctive towns in the next three years, making them exemplary areas for comfortable living, work and tourism.

A ground-breaking ceremony was held earlier this week in Jedeshol Town, Gonggar County, marking the start of the pilot project for urban construction in the plateau region.

Town infrastructure, including roads, will also be improved. The showcase project is expected to boost the traditional colored apron weaving in Jedeshol Town, which are garments often worn by Tibetan women.

Zhoigar, deputy head of the Tibet Housing and Urban-Rural Development Department, said the township construction will highlight historical and cultural resources, improve living standards and protect the environment.

The construction of the showcase towns will stick to the principle of prudent cutting of trees, no digging of mountains, no filling lakes and little destruction of houses, according to the project.

The 20 towns are in seven cities or prefectures in Tibet. Most of them have finished their planning. Experts will join the construction and provide technical support.