Once a murky stinky river Queen Mother Xiao River now teems with life. Imagine the transformation. For over 1400 years this 68.41 kilometer long river flowed through Beijing. It carried pollution and waste. Now it’s a vital waterway. Queen Mother Xiao River runs through seven districts. It eventually joins the Grand Canal. This is the world’s longest artificial waterway.
The revitalization of Queen Mother Xiao River is a remarkable story. A pollution campaign began in 2013. Authorities tackled the problem aggressively. They shut down 86 major sewage outlets. New pipelines were installed. Sewage treatment facilities were upgraded. The Huaifang recycled water plant plays a crucial role. This plant recycles sewage from the city’s southwest. The recycled water is now a major source for Queen Mother Xiao River.
The river’s banks have also been transformed. Millions of square meters were reclaimed. New grasslands and forests now line the river. This creates a beautiful landscape. Residents can now enjoy walking or cycling along the Queen Mother Xiao River. This was impossible just a few years ago. The river was so polluted. People avoided it especially in summer. The smell was unbearable.
But the revitalization of Queen Mother Xiao River isn’t just about infrastructure. It’s about community involvement. A river-chief system was initiated in 2017. River chiefs patrol the waterways. They report illegal dumping. They monitor the water quality. Their efforts are vital to the river’s health. They ensure that Queen Mother Xiao River stays clean.
The result of all this effort is impressive. Many polluted waterways in Beijing have been cleaned. The city’s sewage treatment rate is now nearly 96 percent. That’s a significant increase from 83 percent in 2013. Queen Mother Xiao River is a shining example of environmental success. It proves that collaboration between the government and citizens is powerful. It’s a testament to the enduring beauty of nature. The future of Queen Mother Xiao River looks bright. It will continue to be a source of pride and joy for the people of Beijing.