Chongqing - Chongqing's democratic consultative institution is advising measures to protect ships in dangerous areas along the Three Gorges. Bridging News covered the discussions by the Chongqing Municipal Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference on April 24.

The renowned Three Gorges, a must-pass section of China's Yangtze River waterway, are celebrated worldwide for their magnificent scenery. However, perennial rainfall, temperature variations, and weathering cause frequent rockfalls along the riverbanks, posing threats to passing vessels - with even greater risks during flood seasons. Managing these hazardous cliffs has become a critical task for local authorities.

To address these risks, the Chongqing Municipal Committee of the CPPCC has facilitated sectoral consultations, bringing together experts from fields like environmental resources, science and technology, to provide solutions.

Xue Mei, a member of the CPPCC and deputy director of the Chongqing Academy of Surveying and Mapping, suggested utilizing a comprehensive "sky-air-ground" observation system, which integrates satellite, aerial, and ground-based monitoring. This system would include the application of satellite-based ground deformation monitoring equipment and geological slope radar, enabling early detection of risks and hidden dangers.

Diaozui, a dangerous rock in the Qutang Gorge of Fengjie County, is the largest and most hazardous rock in the Three Gorges Reservoir area. (Photo/Chongqing Daily)

The most dangerous rock in the Three Gorges Reservoir area is Diaozui. At nearly 200 meters above the Yangtze River's surface, even a small rockfall from Diaozui poses a significant threat to passing ships.

In response, local authorities have installed 45 smart monitoring devices around the rock to ensure 24/7 surveillance. These devices are equipped with a digital system that automatically triggers alarms if any deformation occurs, even as small as a few centimeters. The system then sends real-time information to inspectors and relevant authorities.

Construction workers inspected the crack meters and other monitoring equipment in Three Gorges reservoir area. (Photo/Chongqing Daily)

In the air there are drones for inspection. A total of 10 drone base stations are across the Chongqing section of the Three Gorges Reservoir, monitoring 50 dangerous rocks that pose a risk to the Yangtze River waterway.

Xue further advocated for enhanced data sharing across departments such as water conservancy, maritime affairs and meteorology, to improve risk prediction and early warning systems. 

Rockfall risks in the Three Gorges Reservoir have long been a concern for river shipping. Since 2023, Chongqing authorities have developed a plan to manage hazardous rock disasters in the area, aiming for a 100% clearance rate within three years. As of the latest update, 415 dangerous rocks have been cleared, representing 96.3% of the total.