The central route of the South-to-North Water Diversion Project has transported 4 billion cubic meters of water to Tianjin, the local water authorities announced at a press conference on July 16.
The water diverted through the central route is equivalent to 280 times the amount stored in the West Lakes, and the diverted water has benefited more than 10 million people while boosting Tianjin's green development.
Tianjin had been one of China's largest cities suffering from water shortages. Before the central route was dug through, the city mainly received diverted water from Luan River while relying on the area's unpredictable rainwater. The local water authorities said the South-to-North Water Diversion Project has been effective in addressing the dilemma.
"Since the opening of the central route, Tianjin has built a new pattern of water supply including water sourced from the Luan River and the Yangtze River, and connected five water reservoirs in the city," said Tang Xianqi, an inspector at the Tianjin Municipal Water Bureau. "The diverted water is supplying 14 administrative districts, including the city's central urban area and Binhai New Area."
In the five years since the project was completed, 800 million cubic meters of water has been brought to replenish major rivers in Tianjin, greatly improving the water ecology and the environment.
In addition, the water quality has now been improved to reach Class II and higher standards. Tap water in the city has seen a sharp reduction in turbidity. Residents have reported much improved clarity and taste in their drinking water as a result.