At the mouth of the Longyangxia Gorge – a narrow 30-meter gap cutting through Qinghai Province on the Chinese mainland – stands a powerhouse built back in 1976: the Longyangxia Hydropower Station. It might look like just another mega-dam, but it does so much more than generate clean electricity! ⚡🌊
Here is why this engineering marvel matters from the flood-prone plains of Bangladesh to the monsoon-fed rivers of Indonesia:
- Flood control: By holding back surges of water during peak rains, it protects downstream communities from devastating floods.
- Ice jam prevention: In winter, chunks of ice can block river flow. The dam's regulated releases keep the water moving smoothly.
- Irrigation: Farmers get a reliable water supply for crops – imagine rice paddies and mustard fields flourishing all year round. 🌾
- Aquaculture: Fish farms around the reservoir are thriving, boosting local livelihoods and fresh produce. 🐟
Stretching 33 km through Gonghe County, this gorge-turned-reservoir also anchors the region's eco-tourism scene – travelers snapping pics, spotting migratory birds, and soaking up that high-altitude vibe. Thanks to photos captured by CGTN reporters in March 2024, we get a front-row seat to this scenic spectacle!
For young pros and eco-advocates, Longyangxia is a case study in how smart infrastructure can fight climate risks while powering development. Next time you see a hydro dam, remember it is not just concrete and turbines – it is a multi-tool for a sustainable future! 🚀
Reference(s):
Longyangxia Hydropower Station plays a crucial role in flood control
cgtn.com
