The Chinese government has enhanced efforts to protect the hydrological environment in the Three Gorges dam area where the construction of a gigantic hydroelectric power project is under way.

Chongqing Municipality plans to build 19 water treatment plants as the initial step of water protection. So far 16 of them have been finished and put into use.

A total of 13 urban waste stations are also in trial operation. This has significantly improved water conditions in the Three Gorges area.

Chongqing Municipality will complete 30 water treatment projects by 2005 to protect the local hydrological situation.

(CRI February 2, 2004)