“From foul to fair.” That is the story of Beijing’s Liangshui River. This river is more than just a waterway. It represents transformation and the power of restoration. The Liangshui River has a history stretching back over 1400 years.
Once a murky and unpleasant river, the Liangshui River has been reborn. Today, it is a thriving ecosystem and an attraction for residents and visitors alike. This 68.41-kilometer-long river flows through seven districts in Beijing. It eventually empties into the Grand Canal, the world’s longest artificial waterway.
The transformation began in 2013. Authorities in Beijing launched a campaign to combat the pollution of the river. The Liangshui River has since regained its vitality.
Imagine the change. One resident named Huang recalls cycling along the Liangshui River. He does this for about an hour every day. Only a few years ago, the river was so smelly that nobody wanted to go near it. This was especially true in the summer.
Back in 2016, reporters saw the Xiaolong River full of floating garbage. The Xiaolong River is a tributary of the Liangshui. Sewage treatment facilities could not keep up with the population growth near the river. This caused severe damage to the ecosystem. Domestic and industrial sewage was dumped into the river.
The Beijing Water Authority knew they needed to improve sewage treatment capacity. Over the years, they blocked off 86 major sewage outlets. They installed new sewage and recycled water pipelines. This was to upgrade sewage treatment facilities.
The Huaifang Recycled Water Plant played a big role. It is located at the source of the Xiaolong River. This plant recycles domestic sewage from the city’s southwestern region. Its recycled water became a main source for the Xiaolong.
Authorities conducted extensive river dredging. They increased grassy and forested areas on both sides of the river. These areas now cover about 2.87 million square meters.
Protecting the riverine environment requires joint efforts. Both authorities and residents need to be involved. In 2017, Beijing started a river chief system. This system operates at the city, district, township, and village levels. It aims to tackle water pollution.
River chiefs must patrol the river at least once a month. They must report illegal activities. These include the dumping of untreated sewage and industrial waste.
Gong Jingbo is the Party secretary of Kaerbaili community. He has lived near the Liangshui River for 18 years. Gong became a river chief last year. He patrols the river in the early morning and evening. He hopes to protect the environment. He also wants to contribute to the Liangshui River’s well-being.
These joint efforts have paid off. Over the past nine years, 142 polluted waterways across the city have been cleaned. The sewage treatment rate has increased. It went from 83 percent in 2013 to nearly 96 percent today.
This transformation continues. The water authority will launch another three-year campaign. This campaign will further improve the city’s waterways. The goal is to turn the Liangshui River into a multi-functional resource. It will serve flood control, sightseeing, ecology, and culture.
The Liangma River International Waterfront is a pioneering venture. It is in the realm of immersive smart tourism experience spaces. This waterfront is part of an elite group of locales. They are earmarked for significant development. They promise a unique blend of technological innovation and natural beauty.
As evening falls upon the Liangma River, the area transforms. It becomes a mesmerizing spectacle of lights. The river has 24 bridges and 18 designated viewing spots. These create a picturesque route for visitors. Contemporary techno stages add a modern twist. They are along the six-kilometer boating path.
An expansive riverside park has been developed. It ensures that a large percentage of the area is dedicated to public leisure. This park is a haven for nature lovers. It is also a hub for cultural and gastronomic exploration.
The Liangma River’s origins trace back to a moat. It is in the northeast of the city. It winds through Chaoyang Park. It converges with the Bahe River. The Liangma River encapsulates the essence of Beijing’s historical and cultural heritage. It is a memorable journey through the heart of Beijing.