Fisherwoman's new life along a revived Yangtze River
Chen Lanxiang, who spent 24 years living and fishing on the Yangtze River, is adapting to life along the waterway as environmental revival efforts take hold.
MA'ANSHAN, China – For 24 years, the Yangtze River was the center of Chen Lanxiang's life, serving as both her home and workplace. Life on the river has undergone significant changes as efforts to revive the riverine ecosystem gain momentum.
Chen, known locally as San Jie, or "third sister," sustained herself through fishing for two decades. Changes in regulations and improved water quality, however, have impacted traditional livelihoods.
New regulations and better water quality increasingly affect traditional industries like fishing. Communities along the river, including residents like Chen, face the need to adapt, potentially by seeking new employment or entrepreneurial opportunities along the banks.
The revival of the river area is part of China's broader initiative to improve environmental conditions and foster sustainable development, impacting millions of lives that depend on the Yangtze's ecosystem and waterway.