Xi'an is implementing the “Eight-Rivers Regeneration” project, which involves construction of water supply lines, restoration of wetlands, rehabilitation of river channels, and reconstruction of lakes.

It follows an integrated plan that uses all kinds of water, including natural precipitation, streams, and reclaimed water, to create a quasi-natural water cycle in the urban water environment.

Xi’an was the ancient capital city of China. In ancient times, there was plentiful water running down from the nearby Qinling Mountains, feeding many rivers passing near the city, and forming the ancient beauty of “Eight Rivers Surrounding the Capital”.

Yet, over time, climate change, hydrogeological variation, rapid industrialization and urbanization, overuse and improper management of the water resources all resulted in the disappearance of the ancient water quality and abundance; the environmental deterioration has become a major problem hindering the sustainable development of the city.

The "Eight-Rivers Regeneration" Project includes the construction of water supply lines, restoration of 7 wetlands, rehabilitation of 8 river channels, and reconstruction of 28 lakes, including some surrounded parks designed to imitate Tang Dynasty landscapes known from ancient illustrations.

The plan also uses five building blocks:

1) Vision

Regeneration of a water city with maximized utilization of all kinds of water.

2) Governance

A newly reformed Municipal Water Authority as the sole government agency in charge of all water issues.

3) Knowledge & Capacity

Exchange of knowledge with sister cities all over the world, involvement of universities, engineering consultants, as well as citizens' participation.

4) Planning Tools

National regulations, standards and guidelines for urban water planning and management. Development of Water Cycle Management tools and models.

5) Implementation Tools

Promotion of Public-Private-Partnerships to supplement investment.

Expansion of urban green spaces make the city more resilient and environmentally sustainable.

It will also feature Xi’an not only as a rich historical and cultural city, but also its new appearance as a “Water City” with various water elements, a livable city with beautiful water environment, and a more active city with great potential for sustainable development.

Photo by gabriel xu on Unsplash