Once notorious as a \"black water lake,\" Yundang Lake in Xiamen's Fujian Province has undergone a remarkable transformation. Today, visitors to the shores of Yundang Lake are greeted with flourishing trees, pristine waters, and flocks of vibrant water birds, earning the area the nickname \"city's drawing room.\" This beloved spot is now a favorite for local residents to relax and engage in outdoor activities.
Decades ago, the scene was starkly different. Chen Yajin, a retired teacher from a local middle school, recalls the days when the lake was heavily polluted. \"When people walked by, they held their breath and steered clear of the lake as fast as they could,\" Chen, 65, reminisces about the foul stench that once plagued the area.
The early 1980s brought rapid urbanization and industrialization to Xiamen, leading to severe pollution from sewage, industrial wastewater, and garbage. In response, the city government initiated an environmental restoration campaign in 1984. Key measures included clearing away sludge, reinforcing lake shores, relocating heavy-polluting factories, and establishing sewage treatment facilities to effectively curb pollution.
To further restore the lake's ecosystem, pipelines were installed to enhance water exchange between the lake and the nearby sea. Additionally, the mud dredged from the lake's bottom was repurposed to create a small island, now a thriving habitat for water birds.
Over the years, Xiamen authorities have launched five major campaigns focused on the ecological restoration of Yundang Lake. Chen notes, \"Today, we can see over 80 kinds of water birds in the lake area.\" With six different parks now surrounding the lake, the area has truly become a recreational center for residents, showcasing the city's commitment to sustainable urban living.
Reference(s):
China's coastal city witnesses ecological restoration progress
cgtn.com
