Baoxiang River in Kunming

Chinese Name:昆明官渡区宝象河
English Name: Baoxiang River in Kunming
Total Length of the River Channel: 41.4 km
Drainage Area: 292 km²
Source of Water: Laoyeshan Mountain in the southeastern part of Guandu District

Overview

The Laobaoxiang River is one of the ancient Liu Rivers of Kunming and the second-largest river in the city. It originates from Laoyeshan Mountain in the southeastern part of Guandu District, with a total length of 48 kilometers, flowing through Xiaozhai Village before entering the Laobaoxiang River Reservoir. The river traverses several streets in Guandu District, including Dabanqiao, Ala, Xiaobanqiao, Guandu, Liujia, and Yiliu, covering a drainage area of 344.3 square kilometers, and ultimately flows into Dianchi Lake, serving a population of over 1 million. The Baoxiang River has a long history, having witnessed the prosperity of ancient Dian civilization and bringing vitality to the city of Kunming.

The Baoxiang River mainly consists of natural river channels, with the lower reaches mostly comprising hillsides and farmland. In addition to the main Laobaoxiang River Reservoir, several small reservoirs have been constructed on its tributaries, including Tienshengba, Qianweijun, Tongniusi, Cichong, and Fuxing, controlling a total drainage area of 109.6 square kilometers. Thirteen small river dams have also been built along the river, including Jinma Village, Yuanyang Dam, Yangfu, and Xiaobanqiao. The water quality is classified as inferior Class V.

Developing

With the increase of pollution in the 1980s, the Baoxiang River experienced a phase of deteriorating water quality. However, in 2008, Kunming City launched a remediation project for the Baoxiang River. Under the leadership of Mayor Zhang Zulun, measures such as sealing off pollution sources, renovating river banks, greening riverbanks, and repairing roads were implemented. After nearly a year of remediation, the banks of the Baoxiang River are now lush with greenery, showing a significant improvement in water quality, an increase in fish populations, and a growing number of visitors. River cleaning staff have reported a decrease in litter and a gradual restoration of the ecological environment along the river.

At Baofeng Wetland Park, the reporters observed blooming lotus flowers, croaking frogs, and flying sparrows, with many people coming to enjoy their time. Baofeng Wetland Park is part of the Kunming Dianchi International Urban Wetland, with a planned area of 2,360 acres, subdivided into three phases. The first phase has already been completed, covering over 400 acres, with a water surface area of 134 acres and the planting of 17,900 trees.

The section of Baoxiang River in the Economic Development Zone is located in the middle and upper reaches of the river, with water quality serving a crucial role for the entire river system. After treatment, clear water continues to be injected into the Baoxiang River, ensuring the water quality. The green belts and plant zones on both sides of the river have also been well maintained, keeping the river water clear.