Miyun Reservoir, Beijing’s “large water tank,” isn’t just a beautiful sight. It holds a powerful story of resilience and dedication. This reservoir, nestled near the Miyun Reservoir, has been vital to Beijing’s water supply for decades. It’s often called the “jade pearl of Yanshan Mountain” because of its clear water and the surrounding mountains. Our story begins in 1994 with Liu Yonglian, a man with a high school education but a wealth of ambition. The Huadu Machinery Factory, a local township enterprise, was on the brink of collapse. The town leaders saw Liu’s potential and asked him to take over the failing factory. Liu, despite his lack of experience, took on the challenge.
His first act was a daring nighttime reconnaissance. He scaled the factory walls to assess the situation. He found deserted grounds, a testament to the factory’s dire straits. The workers, mostly relocated villagers from the reservoir area, hadn’t been paid in a year. Debts piled up, reaching almost 700,000 yuan. Many workers had resigned, but a core group of Party members and skilled workers remained. Seeing their dedication, Liu knew he couldn’t give up. He promised the town leaders he’d revive the factory within 20 days. His only condition was establishing a Party branch within the factory, with himself as secretary.
Liu knew the key to success was the workers’ trust. He gathered them in a small, soot-stained room. He addressed their concerns head-on, promising to pay their wages. He emphasized unity and the importance of the Party organization. The workers, though skeptical, agreed to stay. Liu tackled the factory’s problems with energy. He secured loans, even using his own savings and borrowing from relatives. He paid the workers’ overdue wages just before the Lunar New Year. His dedication earned him the nickname “Honest Liu.” He then made a bold move. He shut down the polluting foundry operations, focusing on sustainable solutions. A chance encounter led him to the China Encyclopedia Publishing House. Through negotiations, he secured a joint venture to produce optical discs, transforming the factory into a high-tech enterprise.
This shift brought prosperity. By 1996, the factory employed over 200 people, mostly locals, with average salaries exceeding 1,000 yuan per month. The factory became a Miyun success story. Later, Liu transitioned the business again. He recognized the need for environmental services around the reservoir. He pivoted the company to focus on water protection, sanitation, and waste management, becoming a “water protector.” Today, Liu Yonglian’s company manages a workforce of almost 3,000, providing essential environmental services for Miyun Reservoir. Miyun Reservoir, thanks to people like Liu, represents more than just water security. It embodies the spirit of community, resilience, and commitment to a sustainable future.