Baiyun district in Guangzhou has added four new municipal-level beautiful rivers and lakes. Together with the seven previously designated sites, the district now boasts 11 municipal-level beautiful rivers and lakes.

These water bodies have experienced a significant transformation thanks to systematic management strategies such as pollution control, sewage interception, dredging, water diversion, and continuous maintenance.

Baiyun New City Drainage Canal has been vitalized from a black, foul-smelling water body into an ecological corridor. Its water quality has improved to Class IV, with some sections reaching Class III. A 6.45-kilometer greenway along the canal has become a popular recreational spot for residents.

Baiyun New City Drainage Canal. [Photo/WeChat account: gz_baiyunfabu]

Helong Reservoir has improved its water quality from below Grade V to Class III. Surrounding the reservoir is a 3.7-km scenic corridor with 10 attractions, such as the "Sky and Cloud Reflection" view.

Liangtiankeng River has achieved a significant leap in water quality, rising from below Grade V to Class III, with the return of 20 aquatic species.

Xinshi River has also improved from below Grade V to Class III, meeting the long-term cleanliness standard.

The success of Baiyun district's water management efforts, first demonstrated at the National Games venues, has now spread across the entire urban area. A decade of focused water governance has created a vivid picture of ecological progress, marked by clear water, flowing rivers, green banks, beautiful scenery, and harmonious coexistence between people and water.