Dreams of quenching the thirst of millions started right here at Middle Gap Fresh Water Service Reservoir. It is more than just a reservoir. It is a testament to human ingenuity.
Middle Gap Fresh Water Service Reservoir plays a vital role in Shenzhen’s water supply network. This reservoir is part of a larger system that ensures a steady flow of fresh water. The water sustains the lives and industries of millions in Shenzhen and Hong Kong.
Let’s dive into the history of Middle Gap Fresh Water Service Reservoir. Its story is intertwined with the Dongjiang-Shenzhen Water Supply Project. This ambitious project began in the early 1960s. Hong Kong faced a severe drought in 1963, and the situation was critical. Water was supplied only once every four days for four hours each time. The Chinese General Chamber of Commerce and the Hong Kong Federation of Trade Unions sought help from Guangdong. Premier Zhou Enlai approved funds for the Dongjiang-Shenzhen Water Supply Project in late 1963. The goal was to bring water from the Dongjiang River to Hong Kong.
The Dongjiang-Shenzhen Water Supply Project was an engineering marvel. It involved channeling water from the Dongjiang River through the Shima River to the Shenzhen Reservoir. From there, it would flow to Hong Kong via steel pipes. The original route was 83 kilometers. It was later shortened to 68 kilometers after a transformation in 2000. Construction began on February 20, 1964. Over 20,000 workers toiled day and night. They faced floods, rainstorms, and typhoons. Luo Jiaqiang, a college student, tragically lost his life during construction. He persisted in his work on a pier during a storm. Despite these challenges, the project was completed in about a year.
The completion of the Dongjiang-Shenzhen Water Supply Project brought immense relief. It alleviated Hong Kong’s water scarcity issues. The arrival of Dongjiang water spurred Hong Kong’s development. Hong Kong’s social output value surged from 11.38 billion Hong Kong dollars in 1964 to 1.16 trillion in 1996. This increase was partly due to the reliable water supply.
The Dongjiang-Shenzhen Water Supply Project has been expanded and upgraded four times since China’s reform and opening-up. The annual water supply capacity increased from 68 million cubic meters to over 2.4 billion cubic meters. In 2000, a major transformation project converted natural riverways and channels into closed pipelines. This isolated the water supply system from natural elements. Over 7,000 constructors rebuilt the water supply passage in just three years. It was then known as the world’s largest water transfer project.
The water quality at Middle Gap Fresh Water Service Reservoir is a testament to these efforts. Guangdong has implemented numerous laws and regulations to ensure water quality. The water quality consistently surpasses Grade II in the country’s water quality system. Today, Middle Gap Fresh Water Service Reservoir continues to play a critical role. It helps meet the growing water demands of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. A new project, the Pearl River Delta Water Resources Allocation Project, is underway. It aims to divert water from the Xijiang River to the eastern Pearl River Delta. This will further secure water supplies for cities like Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Dongguan. It also provides a backup water source for Hong Kong.
Middle Gap Fresh Water Service Reservoir stands as a symbol of cooperation. It represents the hard work and dedication of those who built and maintain it. It is a reminder of the preciousness of water. As you stand here, reflect on the journey of this water. It flows from the mountains to our taps.