Origins of the Yangtze River
The Yangtze River, which is sometimes called Chang Jiang, is the third longest river in the world. According to experts, the Yangtze River originates from the distant glaciers of the Tibetan Plateau and is home to some of the planet’s most precious biodiversity and human settlement.
The Yangtze River covers a total length of over 6,300 kilometers and is sometimes considered the birthplace of the ancient Chinese civilization. The highlight of the Yangtze River is the Three Gorges Dam which is a colossal engineering project and the largest hydroelectric power station in the world.
In terms of ecology, the Yangtze River serves as a vital lifeline to the millions of citizens living along its banks who rely on it for irrigation and transportation needs. In addition, the river is home to a remarkable range of species and is one of only four rivers in the world that pass through all major vegetation regions.
Starting Point of the Yangtze River
The exact starting point of the Yangtze River is a matter of debate. However, according to many historians and geographers, it generally begins at the Thule Valley near Mount Gongga located in the Tibetan Province of Yalong. This is a huge glacier that sits at an elevation of 6,300 meters and is located around 1,200 kilometers west of the capital city of Chengdu.
The glacier is said to be the source of the Yangtze River and its upper portion is the most important in terms of hydrology and geography. From here, the river winds its way through China, passing through Sichuan, Yunnan, and Tibet before entering into the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.
Endpoint of the Yangtze River
The Yangtze River terminates at the mouth of the East China Sea in the island district of Chongming in Shanghai. This part of the river has been used for trading and transportation for centuries due to the fact that it is easily navigable with the right equipment.
The end of the Yangtze River features a number of islands and is surrounded by bustling cities and ports that are known for their culture and history. From its mouth to the Three Gorges Dam, the river covers a length of 3,877 kilometers, making it one of the longest rivers in the world.
The Yangtze River is the most important river in China in terms of economy, transportation and ecology. The river is wide and deep enough for barges and ships to traverse, allowing for the transport of goods, people, and other resources. Aside from transport and trade, the river is also significant for agriculture as its water is used to irrigate crops and provide valuable nutrients to the land.
The Yangtze River is also a popular tourist destination thanks to its scenic beauty in the form of majestic canyons, vibrant vegetation, and deep blue lakes. It is home to some of the planet’s most endangered species such as the Chinese Alligator and the Yangtze Finless Porpoise, both of which enjoy a certain degree of protection in the area.
Environmental Issues of the Yangtze River
As the Yangtze River is one of the most important sources of water in China, it has come under a lot of environmental pressures throughout the years. The river is threatened by overfishing, as well as the increasing pollution from factories and industrial development.
The effects of pollution are visible in the form of dead fish and algae blooms, as well as in the form of toxic compounds that make their way into the water and soil. The river is also affected by climate change, with increased periods of drought and flood, putting a strain on the biodiversity of the region.
Social Issues Related to the Yangtze River
The social issues associated with the Yangtze River relate largely to the displacement of people who have lived in the area for centuries. This is due to the construction of the Three Gorges Dam, which flooded a large number of villages and displaced millions of inhabitants.
The construction of the dam also led to increased soil erosion and siltation, as well as a decrease in the water flow, which has had an effect on water-dependent industries such as fishing, agriculture, and transportation. Furthermore, the dam has also caused an increase in seismic activity, leading to landslides and other geological hazards.
Conclusion
The Yangtze River is a crucial water source in China, providing water for transportation, agriculture and industry as well as hundreds of riverside towns and villages. Despite its importance, the river is under pressure from overfishing, pollution and climate change, while the construction of the Three Gorges Dam has resulted in the displacement of millions of people and ecological threats.
