China's South-North water transfer

Question 1

When did the planning for China’s South-North water transfer project begin, and when did the actual work start?

Answer 1

Planning for the South-North water transfer project began in 1952, but actual work didn’t commence until 2002.

Question 2

What is the primary objective of the South-North water transfer project?

Answer 2

The primary objective is to divert 45 billion cubic meters of water annually from water surplus basins in the south and east to the water-deficient regions in the north, such as Beijing and Tianjin.

Question 3

How much is the estimated cost of completing the South-North water transfer project?

Answer 3

The estimated cost of completing the project is $62 billion.

Question 4

What are the three main routes of the South-North water transfer project?

Answer 4

The three main routes are the Western, Central, and Eastern Routes.

Question 5

Describe the challenges associated with the Western Route of the South-North water transfer project.

Answer 5

The Western Route faces difficult terrain and extremely high altitudes, ranging between 3000-5000 meters.

Additionally, passing through industrial areas raises concerns about pollution and a potential reduction in the volume of the Yangtze River.

Question 6

How long is the Central Route of the South-North water transfer project, and what major structure is utilised in this route?

Answer 6

The Central Route spans 1267 kilometers, and it incorporates the Three Gorges Dam in its operations.

Question 7

What is the length of the Eastern Route, and what major rivers does it utilise?

Answer 7

The Eastern Route covers 1155 kilometers from the Yangtze River, near Shanghai, to Beijing and Tianjin in the north.

Question 8

Who is the primary entity responsible for overseeing the South-North water transfer project?

Answer 8

The main player is the government-sponsored ‘South to North’ Water Transfer Project Company.