Yangtze River

Recently, China completed an 11.18-kilometre-long high-speed underwater tunnel beneath the Yangtze River. The tunnel is designed to facilitate the movement of bullet trains at speeds of up to 350 km/h.

About the Yangtze River

The Yangtze River, known in China as Chang Jiang or Yangzi, is the longest river in China and Asia and the third-longest river in the world, after the Nile River and the Amazon River.

The river is approximately 6,300 kilometres long and is also regarded as the longest river that flows entirely within a single country.

Course of the River

The Yangtze River originates in the mountainous regions of Tibet and flows eastward across China.

For much of its journey, the river passes through mountainous terrain, deep valleys, and gorges. As it approaches eastern China, it enters broad and fertile plains before finally emptying into the East China Sea near Shanghai.

Major Tributaries

The Yangtze River has eight principal tributaries.

On the left bank, the major tributaries are:

• Yalung River

• Min River

• Jialing River

• Han River

On the right bank, the important tributaries are:

• Wu River

• Yuan River

• Xiang River

• Gan River

These tributaries significantly contribute to the river's volume and support agriculture, transportation, and settlements across the basin.

Economic Importance

The Yangtze River has been one of China's most important transportation routes since the thirteenth century. It connects inland regions with coastal ports and links major cities such as Nanjing, Wuhan, and Chongqing.

The river serves as a vital commercial artery, facilitating the movement of goods and people across the country.

Agricultural Importance

The Yangtze Basin is often referred to as China's Great Granary because of its immense agricultural productivity.

Nearly half of China's agricultural crops are grown within the basin. The fertile alluvial soils, abundant water supply, and favourable climate make the region ideal for intensive farming.

The basin is particularly important for the cultivation of rice, wheat, cotton, and oilseeds.

Fisheries and Industry

The Yangtze Basin is also one of China's most important fishing regions. It provides approximately half of all the fish consumed in China, making it crucial for food security and livelihoods.

Population and Urban Centres

The Yangtze River Basin supports a population of around 400 million people, accounting for nearly one-third of China's population.