Swimming in the Yangtze River is an experience that comes with its fair share of risk and adventure. Believed to be the third longest river in the world, the Yangtze River stretches from the glaciers of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau all the way through China and into the East China Sea. With its clear waters, relatively mild-temperatures, and impressive length of 6,300 km, it is no wonder that people have been asking: can you swim in the Yangtze River? We take a look at the potential dangers and benefits of swimming in the Yangtze River and the potential interventions that will ensure the adventure remains safe.
Environmental Conditions
Due to its sizE, temperature, and potential sources of pollution, swimming in the Yangtze River can be a dangerous endeavor. The temperature of the Yangtze varies depending upon the time of year. In the summer, the temperature ranges between 15-28°C and can drop to 5-12°C in the winter. Being exposed to such a change in temperature can be hazardous. Additionally, the river is exposed to different sources of pollution — whether from agriculture, industry, or residential sources — that can impede water quality. High levels of pathogens, heavy metals, fertilizer, and bacteria now exist in the water, and even in the nearby sea.
The regional oceans have also been affected by the river’s pollution. Professor Lu Tanzhou, a prominent marine biologist and researcher in Shanghai, notes “The water of the nearby East China Sea has been contaminated by the pollution of the upstream Yangtze River. This leads to lowered levels of oxygen and increases the alkalinity”, which can create an unsustainable environment for many of the River’s inhabitants. The effects of the pollution can be felt even in the bones of the fish who are native to these waters.
Interventions & Health Risks
While there has been an immense amount of progress in improving the Yangtze’s water quality, there are still no official laws in place that protect swimmers of the river. Dr. Cai Hongwei, a doctor on Nanjing University’s Marine Research Center, notes “It essential to take your own safety into consideration before you step foot into the Yangtze. It can only be recommended in certain areas and with the right precautions.” Dr. Cai suggests taking extreme caution and arming yourself with the right kind of safety gear. In addition, it is important to assess the local conditions of your prospective location prior to taking any risks.
Aside from environmental conditions, swimming in the Yangtze River can also be dangerous as there are certain illnesses and health risks associated with the river. Swimming in unclean waters can cause illnesses such as Cholera, Hepatitis A, Typhoid Fever, and Dysentery. Additionally, swimming with the wrong type of gear can prove dangerous as well. For instance, using a snorkel can let in polluted water, a mask will decrease the visibility of pollutants, and a wetsuit will cause the pollutants to be trapped directly onto the skin.
Health Measures & Regulations
Recently, China has taken more steps to ensure that the Yangtze remains safe and clean. The government began by limiting the number of pump-outs and waste sources that are allowed to release into the river – which resulted in a drastic reduction of the water pollution levels. The Chinese government also created a number of national and regional agencies to monitor the river’s health and to intervene whenever there is a health issue. Organizations such as The Yangtze River Water Bureau and the Yangtze River Commission are responsible for ecological research and health assessments.
In addition, China has also created regulations and health measures for swimmers who choose to take part in the Yangtze River adventure. According to the official website, swimmers must wear certified wet suits that are designed to minimize contact with the polluted waters, and must ensure their equipment is safe and up-to-date. Those who do not meet the necessary health standards or use the wrong type of gear will not be allowed to swim.
Endangered Species & Sustainability
Swimming in the Yangtze River can have a tremendous impact on its ecosystem and its variety of endangered species. The Yangtze contains a large number of endangered species, including the Chinese Sturgeon, the Chinese Alligator, and the endangered Chinese Haitao Spider. Swimming in an area where a critical species exists can disturb its natural habitat and impact its population. As a result, the Yangtze has been declared an endangered species sanctuary and swimming is only allowed in certain areas.
Due to the high water pollution levels and its variety of endangered species, the Yangtze River is not yet a suitable environment for humans. To ensure the sustainability of the Yangtze, the Chinese government has implemented a number of regulations and laws to protect its natural resources, and has implemented a number of health measures to ensure human safety.
Economic Impact
The Yangtze River is both the economic and the cultural backbone of China, playing an essential role in the development of Chinese society. In recent years, the Chinese government has invested heavily in the development of the Yangtze River, which has led to increased tourism, regional development, and an overall improvement of the economy. Swimming in the Yangtze River is an experience that can not only inspire but can also help create jobs and fuel the economy. With the right resources and regulations in place, swimming in the Yangtze can be an important part of the future of China.
Native Experiences & Tourism
Although the Yangtze River is exposed to pollution and has become home to a number of endangered species, swimming in it can still be an incredible experience. Locals have been swimming in the Yangtze for centuries, and have developed a deep relationship with the river. Resilience in the face of extreme conditions, the thrill of standing up to an enormous challenge — These are the valuable experiences that only nature can provide. In addition to its native experiences, the Yangtze has become a major tourism destination in China. Swimming in the Yangtze can be an unforgettable experience that people can share with others.
Conclusion
All-in-all, swimming in the Yangtze River is an activity that comes with its share of risks, but also its benefits. The Yangtze is a part of China’s cultural landscape and can be the site of incredible experiences — from the resilient locals, to the unique wildlife and scenery. Despite the risk of pollution and illnesses, swimming in the Yangtze can still be an unforgettable adventure with the right kind of precautions. With the right regulations, resources, and gear, swimming in the Yangtze River can be an overall safe, memorable, and rewarding experience.
