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Why did the Han government appoint regional inspectors in 106 BCE?

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Map showing the Han Empire's territory around 100 BCE, shaded in orange, covering much of eastern China and extending westward. The map also marks the boundary of modern China and highlights the Great Wall running along the northern frontier, built for protection against the Huns. Major rivers and the capital, Chang'an (Xi'an), are labeled. — Han dynasty Map showing the extent of the Han empire c. 100 bce.

In 106 BCE, the Han government appointed 13 regional inspectors to supervise provincial officials more directly. These inspectors were tasked with visiting the commanderies and kingdoms within their assigned areas to report back to the central government on several key issues:12

The overall efficiency of local officials.12
The presence of corruption or oppression within the administration.12
The general state of popular affection or disaffection among the people.12

This measure was part of the central government's ongoing efforts to maintain control over the administration of the empire. While these inspectors were not intended to create large, permanent provinces, their role in monitoring regional governance was a significant step in the evolution of the Han dynasty administrative structure.12