Once known as the “Kidney of North China,” Baiyangdian Lake has witnessed significant ecological transformations over the decades. Since the 1950s, the lake’s water levels have been declining, leading to periods of drought that forced many residents, whose lives were intricately linked to the lake, to leave their ancestral homes.
Among those who left were the ancestors of Xin Liu. In the early 1960s, his family migrated from Baiyangdian to Wuliangsu Lake in search of better living conditions. Although Xin Liu was born in Wuliangsu and never saw his family’s original homeland, he followed in his father’s footsteps and became a fisherman, maintaining a deep connection to the water.
“My mother often spoke of Baiyangdian with a sense of longing,” Xin Liu recalls. “She always wished to return to the place where our family roots are.”
That cherished wish is on the verge of fulfillment. With the establishment of the Xiongan New Area, concerted efforts have been made to restore Baiyangdian Lake. Environmental initiatives have led to rising water levels, revitalized ecosystems, and improved water quality, breathing new life into the region.
For families like Xin Liu’s, the revival of Baiyangdian is more than an environmental success story; it’s a personal journey home. “Knowing that the lake is thriving again gives us hope,” he says. “It’s not just about returning to a place, but reconnecting with our heritage.”
The restoration of Baiyangdian Lake stands as a testament to sustainable development and the harmonious coexistence between humans and nature. As former residents contemplate their return, the lake once again becomes a symbol of life, culture, and continuity in the heart of China’s Hebei Province.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
