Imagine driving along Jingcheng Expressway. You exit at Beizhuang. Suddenly a beautiful river appears before you. This is the Qingshui He. Its name means Clean Water. The Qingshui He is a sight to behold.
Qingshui He originates in Qingshui Town. Qingshui Town sits on the western edge of Mentougou District in Beijing. It borders Zhuolu and Huailai Counties to the north. Zhaitang Town lies to the east. Shijiaying and Xiayunling Townships are to the south. Laishui County is to the west.
Qingshui Town got its name from this very river. Qingshui means clean water in Chinese. The Qingshui River is the source of the town’s name.
Look at the wide river bank. See the crystal-clear water. Small boats seem to float on the glistening surface. But wait those aren’t boats. They are fallen leaves. They drift down the Qingshui He.
Birds populate the river all year. In winter and spring, over 100000 wild ducks arrive. Chinese mandarin ducks and gray cranes join them. They fill the Qingshui He. In summer and autumn, swans appear. Egrets and black storks come to feed too.
Driving across the short stone bridge feels like driving in the water. The river flows gently beneath your car. It carries you to the other side. The area is like a fairy land.
Wild ducks gather to rest. White egrets and black storks follow. White ducks and geese move toward the river. They frolic like happy children. The Qingshui He has become their haven.
As the sun sets sunshine reflects on the water. White geese begin to return home. Swells of water mark their departure. Soon, serenity descends upon the Qingshui He. It is a peaceful end to a lively day.
The Liangshui River, another river in Beijing, transformed over nine years. It went from a stinky river to a home for fish and plants. Authorities tackled pollution starting in 2013. The Liangshui River regained its vitality. Residents now enjoy clean water and beautiful scenery.
The Beijing Water Authority improved sewage treatment. They cut 86 major sewage outlets. New sewage pipelines were installed. Recycled water became a fresh water source. The authorities also dredged the river. They increased grassland and forested areas.
The Qingshui He is more than just a river. It’s a vital part of Beijing’s landscape. It provides clean water, supports diverse wildlife, and offers a serene escape. Its story reflects the importance of preserving our natural resources. As you stand here take a moment to appreciate the beauty and importance of the Qingshui He.