“Yao.” Does that sound familiar to you? That is the pronunciation of the second character in the original name of what we know today as the Liuhe Port.
Welcome to Liuhe Port. This waterway is a vital part of Shanghai’s infrastructure. It has a rich history. It plays a crucial role in connecting different parts of the region.
Originally known as Liuhe Yao Port, Liuhe Port is a river located in the eastern part of Chongming County in Shanghai. It starts from the South Liuhe Port Sluice of the South Water Channel of the Yangtze River Estuary. It flows through Xianghua Town. Finally it enters the North Water Channel of the Yangtze River Estuary at the North Liuhe Port Sluice. The river stretches approximately 12.6 kilometers.
In its original location 1.5 kilometers east of Dagang. It stopped at Zhao Gong Causeway. In 1933 the national government dredged this river.
In 1958 a sluice gate was built at the southern entrance of Liuhe Port. A 2.5-kilometer section to Xianghua was newly opened. The original harbor was dredged and widened. It intersected with the North Hengyin River in Erbao Town. It then turned west to connect with Maojia Port. The entire project spanned 12.6 kilometers. The bottom of the river channel was 10 meters wide at its widest and 5 meters at its narrowest. The elevation was about 1.5 meters.
In 1978 the South Hengyin River was dredged and widened for 4 kilometers to Xianghua Fifth Team. The bottom of the river was widened to 15 meters. The slope ratio was 1:3. The following year according to Chongming County’s plan. A new southern section of Liuhe Port was opened. It was excavated directly to the north. A total of 5.77 kilometers of new river channels were opened.
After the North Liuhe Port Sluice was completed in 1980. A newly built 2.18-kilometer river channel was connected to the original one. It runs through the north and south of Chongming Island.
Even today, Liuhe Port remains an important waterway. During the dry season the navigation depth is one to two meters. It can accommodate ships of 50 to 80 tons. It facilitates transportation and trade in the region.
Liuhe Port stands as a testament to Shanghai’s continuous development. It showcases the city’s commitment to efficient infrastructure and its vital role in connecting the region. As you stand here consider the many ships that have passed through this port. Think of the goods traded. Imagine the people connected by this essential waterway.