In a recent operation near the mouth of Tiger Rock on the eastern side of Shengli South Road in Zhifu District, workers from the Yancheng Urban Management Bureau's drainage department were seen wearing gas masks as they entered an underground river that was nearly two meters deep. A black car had been removed from the river, highlighting the challenges faced during such maintenance tasks.
As a key flood discharge channel in the urban area, this river plays a crucial role in managing water flow during the rainy season. In 2014, the Shanghai Urban Management Bureau's Drainage Department initiated a comprehensive dredging project involving several major rivers, including the Steel Pipe River, Tongshen River, Happiness 5 River, Xiaoqu River, Daeyang River (south section of West Avenue), Shaoshan River, and Tiger Rock River. The plan involved removing approximately 17,500 cubic meters of silt and maintaining around 80 cubic meters of the riverbed. Once completed, this project is expected to significantly enhance the river’s flood discharge capacity, ensuring better protection for the city during heavy rains.
Dredging operations require strict safety measures, including the use of gas masks and rotating work shifts. At 9 a.m., when the reporter arrived at the Tiger Rock River entrance, a strong odor of mud was noticeable. Two blowers were operating to ventilate the dark waters, while workers in waders and gas masks transported black sludge out of the river.
Most urban rivers are dark and have been in service for over 50 years, making their conditions complex and dangerous. Before any work begins, forced ventilation is carried out for two hours using blowers. Workers then enter the river with gas detectors to check for toxic gases. Only after passing these tests can they proceed with the task. Operators must wear gas masks and rotate shifts regularly. One worker is always equipped with a walkie-talkie and gas detector. If gas levels become unsafe, the device will automatically alert them.
“It’s been a routine for many years now,†said Lao Song, a worker. “This is part of our daily experience.†While cleaning river crossings is relatively straightforward, entering the river requires access through inspection wells. The height varies between 1.7 meters at its highest point and less than 1 meter at its lowest, forcing workers to bend over for long periods, often working in uncomfortable conditions. At the site, oxygen tanks, stretchers, and rescue ropes were also available as part of the emergency equipment.
The operation highlights not only the importance of maintaining urban drainage systems but also the dedication and caution required by those who carry out such critical tasks.
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