Background Information
The Yangtze River is the longest river in China and the third-longest in the world. It is one of the most important watercourses in the world, and serves a vital role in the economy, trade and transportation of the country. The Yangtze River runs for 6,400 kilometres through nine provinces before emptying into the East China Sea. During its course it flows through some of the largest and most important cities in the country.
The Magnitude of the Yangtze River
The Yangtze River is second only to the Amazon when it comes to water discharge of any river in the world. On average, an astonishing 31,700 cubic metres of water flows through the river each second. This incredible waterway has been in existence since ancient times and has been essential to the development of China’s economy.
Major Cities of the Yangtze River
The Yangtze River and its tributaries have provided crucial opportunities for the development of cities along its course. Several major cities have become economical, social and cultural centres as a result of their being situated on the Yangtze River. Some of the most important of these cities include Shanghai, Nanjing, Hangzhou, and Chongqing, as well as the ancient capital cities of Wuhan, Zhenjiang and Jiujiang.
Shanghai, the Largest City
Shanghai is the largest city along the Yangtze River, and serves as an important economic, industrial and financial hub in the region. Located in the Yangtze Delta, it is the biggest Chinese city by population and one of the metropolitan cities in the world. The Yangtze River, as well as its tributaries, has enabled Shanghai to develop into a major port; the city also receives a significant share of the Yangtze’s water discharge.
Nanjing, the Traditional Capital
Nanjing is the second largest city by population along the Yangtze River. It is the capital of Jiangsu Province and is often referred to as the ‘capital of six dynasties’- having served as the traditional capital of six different dynasties throughout history. It is now a major industrial, commercial and educational centre and benefits from its proximity to the Yangtze River by drawing in water for irrigation and industry.
Hangzhou, the Economic Hub
Hangzhou serves as the political, economic and cultural centre of the Yangtze River Delta Region. Despite its relatively small size, it is the third largest city by population in the region. Hangzhou has developed into one of China’s most prosperous cities, owing largely to its strategic position on the banks of the river.
Chongqing, the Industrial Centre
Chongqing is the largest city along the Yangtze River by area. It serves as an important industrial, financial and trade centre in the region, due to its proximity to the river. It is also one of the three national central cities, alongside Beijing and Shanghai.
Water Pollution
Water pollution is a serious issue in many Chinese cities and the Yangtze River is not immune to this. The number of water pollutants has been increasing in the Yangtze over time, due to industrial, domestic and agricultural activities. The pollutants have a severe effect on both human health and the environment; it has been estimated that 79% of Yangtze River Basin water resources are polluted.
Lack of Sanitation
The lack of sanitation is another major problem along the Yangtze. Sanitation facilities are not always available, and wastewater is often left untreated. This wastewater can contain harmful chemicals, heavy metals and other pollutants, and can cause severe weathering of the river and its banks.
Uneven Development
The development of the Yangtze River Basin has been uneven, with certain areas benefiting more than others. This has caused disparities in economic development and access to resources, leading to a lack of adequate sanitation and pollution problems in certain areas. It is important that the appropriate measures are taken to ensure that development is more equitable.
Regional Cooperation
Regional cooperation is essential if the resources of the Yangtze River Basin are to be used in an effective manner. China has taken steps to promote regional cooperation and integrate the river basin areas, in order to promote sustainable development of the region.
Water Diversion Projects
The Chinese government has implemented a number of water diversion projects along the Yangtze River, in order to improve the water supply to cities in the region. The South-to-North Water Diversion Project is the largest and most ambitious of these projects, with plans to transfer water from the south of China to the arid north.
Pros and Cons
The water diversion projects can be beneficial in terms of improving access to water, however they can also cause ecological and environmental concerns, such as the alteration of river flows and disturbances in the natural ecosystem. It is important that such projects are carried out carefully, and that the potential negative impacts are taken into consideration.
Participation and Engagement
The projects also need to ensure that people living in the affected areas are consulted and properly engaged in the process. It is important that the voices of those who will be affected by the changes are heard, in order to ensure that the projects are beneficial to all.
Agriculture and Conservation
Agriculture plays a vital role in the economy of the Yangtze River Basin, and it is essential that measures are taken to ensure that it is practiced in an environmentally friendly manner. Measures such as water conservation and terrace farming can be beneficial in reducing water waste and preventing soil erosion.
Protected Areas
Protected areas are also essential in the Yangtze River Basin, as they provide important habitats. There are currently a number of national nature reserves and wetlands along the river offering protection to the local flora and fauna. As well as providing a refuge for the wildlife, these reserves can also help to regulate local climates, improve water resources and can serve as recreational sites for visitors.
Excessive Dams
There has been an increasing number of large dams built along the Yangtze, which can have both positive and negative effects on the environment. The large dams can be beneficial for water management, irrigation and hydroelectricity, however they have been known to have an adverse effect on migratory species, and can also reduce sediment flows down-river.
Restoration and Rehabilitation
More needs to be done to restore and rehabilitate areas that are affected by the Yangtze River, in order to ensure that the local environment and wildlife are not adversely impacted. The Chinese government has taken steps to promote conservation and rehabilitation initiatives in the area, however further measures need to be taken in order to ensure a more sustainable development of the basin.
Fishing and Fisheries
Fishing and aquaculture play an important role in the economy and livelihoods of people living in the Yangtze River Basin. Fisheries have developed along the river and have contributed to increased food production, reduced poverty and increased economic growth in the region.
Overfishing
Unfortunately, overfishing can have a severe impact on the health of the fish stocks. There are regulations in place to try and prevent overfishing, however illegal fishing practices are still prevalent in the area. It is important that the appropriate measures are implemented in order to ensure a sustainable and responsible management of the fisheries.
Livestock and Aquaculture
Besides fishing, livestock, poultry and aquaculture are also important in the Yangtze River Basin. Livestock farming is the main agricultural activity in the area, while aquaculture provides increased employment opportunities and income. It is essential that these activities are properly managed in order to prevent pollution and ensure a balanced and sustainable use of the resources.
The Future of the Yangtze
The future of the Yangtze River is dependent on how it is managed, and it is essential that the appropriate measures are taken in order to protect the environment and promote sustainable development in the region. With the right management and planning, the Yangtze River can continue to be a vital resource for the economic and cultural development of the region.
