Jinxia Reservoir

“A shimmering expanse of blue amidst the green hills. That is Jinxia Reservoir today. But its story is more than just scenic beauty.
Jinxia Reservoir is a vital part of Guangzhou’s water management system. It helps control water resources for this bustling city.
This reservoir plays a key role in supplying water to Guangzhou. The reservoir’s creation involved considerable planning. Its impact on the local environment and communities was carefully considered.
The area around Jinxia Reservoir is lush. It enhances Guangzhou’s natural beauty. The reservoir is a haven for local wildlife. It is a green lung for the city.
Now let’s delve deeper into the history of reservoirs like Jinxia. Guangdong is in a humid subtropical zone rich with water. Before reservoirs became common rivers served as key transport routes.
The Xinfengjiang River was especially important for transport. It served Heyuan and Xinfeng before 1958.
Xinfengjiang Reservoir shows the ambition of water projects. Construction began in July 1958. It aimed to prevent floods and regulate river flow. Shipping and farm irrigation were also goals. The project finished in 1969.
The creation of Xinfengjiang Reservoir was a massive undertaking. It required relocating entire towns and villages. Six towns were flooded for the project. Many villagers were forced to resettle.
Thousands of residents moved to higher ground. They went to areas like Heyuan, Xinfeng, Longmen and Boluo. Around 94,311 people were displaced. About 15,524 had to move into undisturbed mountain areas.
Imagine the wealthiest parts of Heyuan County. They were submerged forever under the reservoir’s waters. It was a sacrifice for the greater good.
The Xinfengjiang Reservoir later became a tourist attraction. In 1984, Guangdong opened the lake for tourism. In 1993, it became a national park. It was then named “Wanl Green Lake” meaning evergreen lake.
Xinfengjiang Reservoir has provided drinkable water to Heyuan since its creation. Restrictions were placed on local industry to prevent water pollution.
In 2006, some parliament members wanted to sell water to the Pearl River Delta. They thought it would improve local incomes. This led to public debate.
Some experts thought the project was feasible. In 2010, Heyuan signed agreements to supply water to Shenzhen and Guangzhou.
The project allowed Heyuan to supply clear water to Shenzhen and Guangzhou. It could supply 0.2 km² to Shenzhen and 0.1 km² to Guangzhou annually.
Think about how the local economy balanced development and environmental protection.
The tale of Xinfengjiang Reservoir mirrors that of Jinxia. Both highlight Guangzhou’s constant pursuit of progress and sustainability. They reflect human efforts to harness nature’s power.
Today Jinxia Reservoir invites us to reflect. We can think about balancing human needs and environmental stewardship. It stands as a reminder of our responsibilities.”