No Night Navigation during Three Gorges 175 Meters Experimental Water Storage

Three Gorges Reservoir will start the 175 meters experimental water storage at 0:00 on September 10. Yesterday, the Maritime Affairs Bureau of Yangtze River announced that night navigation is forbidden to ensure the navigation safety of the ships on Three Gorges Reservoir Area. The cargo vessels less than 600 tons are advised to avoid night navigation during the 175 meters experimental water storage.

It is reported that Three Gorges Dam will start to impound water from 0:00 on September 10 according to the schedule. The water level will rise from 150 – 155 meters. The water level was hoped to be raised to 175 meters in the end of October or in early November.

According the chief of Maritime Affairs Bureau of Yangtze River Wang Rujun, the shipping routes and ports will of Three Gorges Reservoir Area will change after the water storage. Both the cruise ships and short-distance ships are forbidden to navigate during night. The short-distance cargo vessels less than 600 tons are advised to avoid night navigation.