River cleanup transforms Haizi River in Shandong province

The Haizi River in Ciyao – a charming town in Ningyang county, in East China's Shandong province – has undergone a significant transformation to reverse its environmental pollution.

The town's mother river was previously severely impacted by industrial wastewater discharges and urban sewage, resulting in a dark and foul-smelling waterway.

The county addressed the issue by intercepting and replacing polluted water sections and dredging the river to remove accumulated pollutants.

Over the years, over 700,000 aquatic plants have been planted to enhance the river's purification.

A total of 39 video monitoring sites have now been installed, along with the establishment of a joint management team for public security, agriculture, law enforcement and water resources to enhance the river's management.

The primary aim is the swift identification and resolution of unlawful activities, including unauthorized discharges and improper waste disposal. Since 2022, over 20 joint actions have resolved 660 violations, leading to a sustained improvement in the ecosystem and environment of water bodies.

Additionally, supported by the county government, a team of 150 river personnel has been hired to manage rural river sections.

In recent years, Ningyang county has invested 970 million yuan ($135.71 million) to build a number of cultural and tourism areas such as Fusheng Park and Guangfuhe Park. (Edited by Chen Chuxuan)