The Yangtze Maritime Safety Authorities have issued an urgent warning that the Yangtze has entered its full flooding season following a surge in water volumes in the upper reaches since end of June.

Officials urged barge operators to pay close attention to changes in currents and water levels and to strictly observe the traffic-lane system to avoid collision. They also encouraged local government departments to monitor areas prone to landslides and issue risk warnings.

The authorities will also make special efforts to ensure the safety of the Three Gorges Reservoir by reinforcing the supervision of dangerous goods in vessels, terminals and anchorage areas during hot weather. This refers to special passing slots for vessels carrying dangerous cargo, typically in the morning and late in the evening when the temperature is relatively low. Dangerous goods vessels are routinely escorted by a response team consisting of fire engines and chemical experts.

In a separate development, the Three Gorges Administration has started a water release programme that will help wash away the silt that has accumulated in the reservoir. The Yangtze is one of the world’s most silt-laden rivers, ranking firth globally in terms of sediment discharge. The construction of the dam has slowed down currents and allowed silt to accumulate, posing a serious risk to the long term capability of the dam to prevent flooding.

Visit here to view photos of rubbish being cleared from the reservoir in Hubei province: http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/photo/2011-07/13/content_12891133.htm