River chief conducts patrol in Shandong's city

It's 6:30 am and Kong Feifan, a post-90s generation town-level river chief from Zhudao subdistrict – located in the Huancui district of Weihai city, in East China's Shandong province – heads out to begin his river patrol.

"Zhudao subdistrict has three rivers, three reservoirs and three ponds – all of which are under my care," said Kong.

He added that the sources and outlets of these three rivers are located within Zhudao subdistrict, with a total management length of 11.57 kilometers.

A few minutes later, Kong arrives at the upper reaches of the Zhudao River, opens the River and Lake Chief System App on his phone and walks along the riverbank, comparing the real-time conditions of the river.

Since taking on the job, river patrols have become a daily part of Kong's routine. Whenever he has free time, he visits the riverside, carefully observing the water quality, advising against uncivil behavior and checking if the riverbank's infrastructure is functioning properly. [Photo by Sun Weichao/For chinadaily.com.cn]

Kong explains that Zhudao subdistrict has allowed for the timely detection, reporting and rectification of general environmental issues.

Moreover, river chiefs need to closely monitor changes in the aquatic environment and promptly coordinate with relevant departments to address related issues.

Initially, river patrols were conducted manually. Now, with the use of a mobile app to upload patrol routes, environmental issues and findings, the management capabilities have become more systematic and intelligent.

"We have established a special team, where Party members take the lead and enthusiastic local units and residents actively participate in river cleaning, bush clearing and patrol work," Kong said.

Currently, Kong – along with more than 80 volunteers from Zhudao subdistrict – is involved in water management efforts, making river protection an increasingly common practice among the community. (Edited by Yang Yingxue)