Guangzhou marks ten years of River Chief System with major water quality improvements

Guangzhou has released its achievements marking ten years of implementing the River Chief System, highlighting a significant transformation in the city's water environment. Over the decade, 3,030 river chiefs conducted over 4 million inspections and addressed more than 220,000 water-related issues.

Key environmental improvements include the return of rare species like the waterfall grass and a significant increase in water bird populations. Surface water quality compliance has reached 100% for key monitoring sections, and the city has successfully eliminated black and odorous water bodies in 147 key rivers. Infrastructure upgrades include the construction of approximately 20,000 kilometers of new sewage networks.

A notable success story is the Chebeiyong river in Tianhe District. Previously characterized by sewage discharge and foul odors, the river has been restored through a systematic approach involving source pollution control, underground pipe network upgrades, and continuous maintenance. The water quality there has stabilized at Grade III standards, allowing for the revival of local cultural traditions such as dragon boat racing and the development of riverside greenways.