Bajiang River in Shilin County, Kunming
Bajiang River (巴江), also known as Banqiao River (板桥河), is a first-level tributary of the Nanpan River (南盘江) on the left bank of the Pearl River (珠江) system.
Origin and Route
The river originates from the Shanshen Temple Peak (山神庙峰) in Shilin County (石林县), flowing from north to south through the county seat of Shilin and merging into the Nanpan River at Lufeng Village (禄丰村) in Yiliang County (宜良县). The total length of Bajiang River within Shilin County is 57 kilometers, with a drainage area of 810 square kilometers.
Nearby Attractions
- Shilin World Geopark (石林世界地质公园): Located upstream, this area is renowned globally.
- Dadianshui Scenic Area (大叠水风景区): Situated downstream, it is a national-level scenic spot.
Bajiang River serves as a multifunctional waterway, providing irrigation, flood control, power generation, and urban ecological environment regulation for Shilin County. Along the banks, four townships and two towns host a population of approximately 120,000.
The Mother River of Shilin
Bajiang River is revered as the mother river of the people of Shilin, nurturing countless generations with its vast and generous waters. However, rapid economic and social development has led to significant environmental challenges:
- Vegetation damage along the banks
- Severe soil erosion
- Dilapidation of riverbanks, resulting in blockages and collapses
Environmental Remediation Efforts
In June 2003, the county committee and government decided to invest 212 million yuan in four phases to initiate the largest environmental remediation and protection project in Shilin’s history. The goals are to:
- Thoroughly address pollution in the Bajiang River basin
- Transform it into an ecological river suitable for tourism, urban leisure, agricultural irrigation, urban drainage, and sewage discharge
By the end of 2004, the first two phases of the project, which included 2,200 meters of river length and 115,300 square meters of green space, had been completed with a total investment exceeding 68 million yuan. Construction of a sewage treatment plant is set to begin.
Scenic Features
In the early morning and evening, the 3,300-meter-long Bajiang linear park exudes tranquility and beauty, featuring:
- Winding paths
- Pavilions
- Lush green grass
- Blooming flowers
The scenery resembles an unembellished ink wash landscape painting, attracting an increasing number of domestic and international tourists.
Tourism Resources
Bajiang River is not only a vital water source but also a tourist link, enriching the cultural and recreational landscape of Shilin County:
- Shilin World Geopark (石林世界地质公园): A world-renowned attraction upstream.
- Dadianshui Waterfall (大叠水), also called Feilong Waterfall (飞龙瀑): The largest and most spectacular waterfall in Yunnan Province, located 25 kilometers southwest of Shilin County.
Enhanced Leisure Spaces
After the comprehensive management of Bajiang, Shilin County has introduced a new highlight for tourism and leisure: the Bajiang River Linear Park. The town of Shilin has transformed, allowing the river to flow through the city, creating a harmonious environment where the river and urban life intertwine.
In the early morning and evening, the serene riverbanks are adorned with scenes of fishing, net casting, swimming, and laundry, resembling an exquisite ink wash painting. Visitors can stroll along winding paths by the river, enjoying lush green lawns, clear waters, blooming flowers, shady trees, and refreshing breezes, allowing for relaxation and a reconnection with nature.
The rejuvenated banks of Bajiang have become a popular choice for residents to relax and take walks after meals. As evening falls, the sounds of frogs fill the air, and crowds are often seen enjoying the gentle, colorful lights along the river. The improved water quality and ecological environment have led to an increase in fish and shrimp, with the sight of fish leaping from the shimmering waters adding to the enjoyment. The successful designation of Shilin as a national-level garden city is closely tied to these positive developments.
