[Photo via VCG]

The night cruise on the Liangma River in Beijing's Chaoyang District, with a 6-kilometer boat route, is highly sought after. Starting from Yansha Bridge and heading eastwards along the riverside walkway, both banks are illuminated with dazzling lights. The river and the urban elements complement each other, making the Liangma River a symbol of Beijing's urban renewal in the new era.

Since 2019, Chaoyang District has been carrying out comprehensive management for the Liangma River, aiming to create an international-style landscape along the river. The river management is driving urban renewal and creating a high-quality public space for Beijing and its residents, fulfilling the people's aspirations for a beautiful life.

Water management involves various measures such as sewage treatment, prohibition of the use of underground water, utilization of recycled water, rainwater collection, and promotion of water conservation. Restoration of river banks includes greening and lighting processes, and seamless connection of buildings, green spaces, and water surfaces. Over the past four years, six major projects have been launched successively, focusing on shoreline improvements, bridge renovations, pedestrian connectivity, landscape lighting, river-lake connectivity, and tourism navigation respectively. The 18-kilometer-long riverside greenways on both banks are now fully accessible, with 24 bridges refurbished and the 6-kilometer-long cruise route opened for boats.

Everyday after sunset, the beauty of the ecosystem and the cultural highlights of the Liangma River are fully presented along the waterfront promenade. People can enjoy walks, picnics, boat rides, singing, and more. As one netizen wrote, "This place belongs to everyone, and the inclusiveness of the Liangma River is just a reflection of Beijing itself."

(Source: People's Daily)