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Chinaâs Three Gorges fills faster than expected
Uh oh.China's Three Gorges dam reservoir, the world's biggest hydroelectric project, is filling faster than expected, state media reported on Wednesday. The People's Daily, mouthpiece of the ruling Communist Party, said the massive reservoir hit 135 metres (443 ft) at 10 p.m. on Tuesday, five days ahead of schedule. It did not say why. By the time it is full, the reservoir will be 175 metres (575 feet) deep. Engineers blocked the Yangtze River at the Three Gorges dam on June 1, starting to fill the reservoir for the project that is a point of national pride but which critics fear will become an environmental nightmare. They have had heavy rains this year, lots of water coming in. Also this won't help any: But one problem encountered by the dam's engineers is the large amount of debris in the reservoir - such as tree branches and rubbish - which threatens the safety of boats in the area. The debris could also clog the sluice gates if they have to open them. Not a good thing. Posted by: Steve 2003-06-11 |
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