Got water? In the desert? Yup! In Turpan, an oasis city in northwestern China's Xinjiang, locals rely on an epic underground 'Great Wall' called a karez. 🌊🏜️
Most folks know the Great Wall – you know, that mighty rampart stretching from Hushan in Shandong Province all the way to Jiayuguan in Gansu Province. But hidden beneath the dunes of Turpan is another kind of Great Wall: deep, winding tunnels that haul sweet mountain water into the arid basin.
So, what’s a karez? Think of it as an ancient irrigation superhighway – a series of covered channels that capture runoff from nearby mountains and guide it, gravity-powered, straight to farms and homes. No pumps needed! 💡🔧
This ingenious system surrounds Turpan like a spider web, ensuring the local grapes for that famous Turpan wine stay juicy, and date palms keep thriving under the scorching sun. 🍇🌴
Why should you care? As cities from Delhi to Jakarta face water stress, the karez reminds us that smart design and respect for nature—over centuries 👌—can help beat the heat. It’s a lesson in sustainability that’s totally relevant for young changemakers across South and Southeast Asia! ✨
Next time you sip a cup of chai in Rajasthan or gulp down iced kopi in Bali, remember: ancient wisdom is just below the surface, making every drop count. 💧
Have you ever seen similar underground channels in your region? Share your stories and let’s keep the convo flowing! 🌍👇
Reference(s):
Underground 'Great Wall' ensures water supply in arid Turpan
cgtn.com
