Kathmandu— China is employing advanced technology to protect the Danjiangkou Reservoir in Hubei Province, the primary source for its massive South-to-North Water Diversion Project which supplies drinking water to cities including Beijing. The project, the largest of its kind globally, relies on a comprehensive network integrating ground stations, unmanned vessels, drones, and satellites to monitor water quality around the clock. This multi-dimensional approach addresses the challenges posed by the reservoir’s size and aims to ensure a clean and sustainable water supply for millions facing water scarcity.

Comprehensive Monitoring Network

The monitoring system consists of 23 automatic water quality stations strategically placed throughout the Danjiangkou Reservoir area and its major tributaries. These stations continuously track 19 key water quality indicators, including levels of ammonia nitrogen, phosphorus, heavy metals, and six meteorological readings. Water samples are automatically collected every four hours, generating six data sets daily that are uploaded in real-time to a central system.

Advanced Detection Technologies

Beyond standard chemical analysis, the monitoring stations utilize cutting-edge technologies like online intelligent plankton monitoring systems. These systems use automated microscopes and algorithms to analyze water samples, providing rapid identification of potentially harmful algae blooms. Additionally, tanks containing Chinese medaka fish serve as a biosafety early warning system; sensors track their movements, detecting changes that could indicate the presence of toxins.

Unmanned Systems Enhance Coverage

To overcome limitations of traditional monitoring methods, authorities are deploying unmanned systems such as small orange unmanned vessels equipped with intelligent microscopes and autonomous devices. These vessels collect real-time data on water temperature, pH levels, and dissolved oxygen. Hyperspectral water quality monitoring is also being used to rapidly assess large areas of the reservoir, improving early warning capabilities for pollution risks.

Digital Twin Platform for Data Management

Massive amounts of data collected from these high-tech devices feed into a digital twin platform, serving as an intelligent hub for daily patrols, analysis, and decision-making. This platform provides forecasting, early warning, simulation, and contingency planning capabilities, creating what officials describe as a ‘technological shield’ for the reservoir. Liao Zhiwei, director of the Changjiang Water Resources Commission, stated that they “will comprehensively adopt technological, engineering and management measures to safeguard the safety of the project, and do our best to ensure clean water supply.”

Positive Results in Water Quality

The implementation of this comprehensive monitoring system has yielded positive results. The middle route of the South-to-North Water Diversion Project has consistently maintained surface water quality at Class II or above in recent years. The presence of freshwater jellyfish, known for their sensitivity to pollution and nicknamed ‘pandas in the water,’ is also seen as a testament to the improved water quality within the reservoir.

Officials are committed to continuing these efforts through technological advancements, engineering solutions, and effective management practices to ensure the long-term safety and sustainability of this critical water supply.

(With inputs from Xinhua)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.