Local Community Engages in Environmental Conservation in Nagchu
A Unified Effort for Water Ecology Restoration
In the Nagchu region of the Xizang autonomous area, community members are actively contributing to initiatives aimed at preserving and restoring local water ecosystems, all under the guidance of effective government leadership. The local administration has enlisted residents to monitor and maintain their natural surroundings, such as rivers, lakes, and forests.
According to the city’s water management authority, an impressive 90,000 residents—about 18% of Nagchu’s total population of 505,400—have taken on roles as ecological guardians. This number includes over 14,000 individuals specifically focused on water conservation. Most individuals involved in these environmental efforts benefit from financial support provided by the government. By year-end, these eco-conscious citizens will collectively receive 32 million yuan (approximately $4.4 million) as compensation for their pivotal roles.
Tradition Meets Modern Conservation: Tsega’s Commitment
Tsega serves as an ecological steward in Marchu township within Amdo County of Nagchu City. With decades dedicated to protecting water resources under his belt, Tsega hails from Lothe village—a locale perched at over 5 kilometers above sea level that is home to the Jangchu Diruk Glacier—the primary source feeding China’s renowned Yangtze River.
Generations immersed in understanding ecological preservation have led Tsega’s fellow villagers to view this commitment as a deeply ingrained tradition; they acknowledge that these glacial waters are vital for their survival.
The Marchu township administration has recognized more than 300 local inhabitants to fulfill roles ensuring regular cleanups along various natural features—including rivers and wetlands surrounding glaciers—and maintaining landscapes including grasslands.
During these cleanup initiatives, residents diligently remove plastic waste and bottles from waterways while also educating both locals and tourists about responsible practices during outdoor activities.
“The streams we protect not only provide drinking water for countless downstream communities but also sustain diverse wildlife relying on this ecosystem,” remarked Tsega. He emphasized that safeguarding clean water sources is paramount for pastoral societies like theirs: “Throughout each season of the year, our villagers engage collectively—regardless of age or gender—in environmental upkeep.”
Sodrub’s Role in Eco-Preservation
Another passionate caretaker named Sodrub resides in Lhegan village which boasts a dedicated cohort of over 60 ecological guardians entrusted with overseeing nearby rivers and wetlands.
“We embark on weekly patrols picking up litter scattered throughout nature,” he explained. Their mission extends beyond cleanliness; they ensure wildlife around lake areas remains unharmed while fostering a pollution-free environment essential for overall health among humans and livestock alike.
“This approach promotes well-being among our communities,” Sodrub asserted while noting how it helps mitigate disease risks beneficially impacting both human life and livestock production longevity.
An Expanding Network Boostered by Governmental Support
Recent data reveals that upwards of 2,700 environmental monitors have been deployed within Three-River-Source National Park located near Drachen County—a crucial area known for its biodiversity richness according to information shared by the county’s grassland conservation department.
Nyima Kelsang leads efforts within this bureau articulating their focus: “Our patrollers diligently safeguard river sources while removing refuse regularly.”
Echoing sentiments shared amongst his peers was Pema—the Party secretary governing Sershongal village who reinforces communal responsibility towards environmental stewardship: “Caring for our surroundings is imperative,” he declared firmly.
“As we do today; we commit ourselves consistently with dedication into preserving our homeland’s mountains and rivers into future generations.”
