Water Case study:China's South-North transfer project

Question 1

Problems

Answer 1

1. critics concerned about uncertainties + risks associated with project - likelihood of significant ecological + environmental impacts along waterways,resettlement issue and worsening water quality
2. pollution of Yangtze River already at alarming levels
3. untreated industrial and city wastewater being mixed unchecked with agricultural runoff containing pesticides + fertilisers
4. The Huai River is already severely polluted and the water of the Yellow river is undrinkable=ecological disaster

Question 2

Context

Answer 2

1. South of China rich in water resources but north is not
2. 2. to redistribute these resources + even out availability of water, gigantic south-north water diversion project begun 2003, expected to cost $62 bil + 50 years to complete
3. 3 major canals will be built which run 1300 km + link major rivers within China together i.e. Yangtze. Yellow, Huai, Han
4. Transfer 4.8 nillion m3 of water per year
5. Central govt will provide 60% of cost of scheme - rest from local authorities in which in return charge domestic + industrial users
6. water conservation,improved irrigation,pollution treatment + environmental protection included in the plans