In the heart of northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the once-arid land of Kekeya has blossomed into a verdant oasis. Decades of unwavering dedication to combating desertification have transformed this area, nestled on the northern edge of the formidable Taklimakan Desert, into a symbol of ecological rebirth and economic prosperity.
The “Green Great Wall” Emerges
Known as the “Sea of Death,” the Taklimakan Desert spans an immense 337,000 square kilometers, making it China’s largest desert. Kekeya, bordering this vast expanse, was once notorious for relentless sandstorms that plagued the local communities. In 1986, a monumental afforestation project was initiated to shield residents from the shifting sands and improve their quality of life.
Despite facing challenges such as water scarcity, high soil salinity, and a lack of heavy machinery, the pioneers of this project were undeterred. Armed with simple tools, they labored tirelessly to soften the hardened earth, level the terrain, and adjust the soil conditions to support tree growth. Their efforts gave rise to what is now affectionately known as the “Green Great Wall.”
Hope Takes Root
Within a year, signs of greenery began to emerge in Kekeya’s barren landscape. For local residents, this was more than just a change in scenery—it was a beacon of hope. “We were planting trees almost every spring and autumn then,” recalled Song Jianjiang, one of the first forest rangers involved in the project. “Since our shelterbelt forest was planted, it has blocked the wind and sand from afar and helped keep our homes clean.”
Over the first decade, approximately 2,200 hectares of artificial forest were established, followed by another 4,360 hectares in the subsequent decade. Since 2012, afforestation efforts have expanded exponentially, achieving over 62,000 hectares.
Economic Blossoms Amidst Greenery
The transformation of Kekeya has not only curbed desertification but also spurred economic growth. Local apple grower Zhao Hongguang attested to the remarkable difference. “Back then, I planted over 2.6 hectares of land, but only 280 pear and apple trees survived,” he said. “Now, one mu (one-fifteenth of a hectare) of land can produce 3 to 4 tonnes of apples. Four tonnes of apples can sell for over 20,000 yuan (about $2,850). Most of my apples are sold to the Yangtze River Delta and the Pearl River Delta regions.”
Wildlife Returns
As the ecological environment improved, biodiversity flourished. Photography enthusiasts Su Hui and his wife, Lu Fang, have captured images of birds and wildlife previously unseen in the region. “In recent years, species like kingfishers, great rosefinches, and bluethroats have appeared in Aksu,” said Su. “These birds were never seen here before, but now they can be spotted.”
A Legacy of Greenery
After relentless efforts spanning generations, the afforestation project in Kekeya has achieved over 80,000 hectares of forestation. The forest coverage rate soared from 8 percent in 1986 to 73 percent in 2020. Today, green spaces and pocket parks are flourishing throughout Aksu’s urban areas, enhancing the living environment for residents.
“We have built the shelterbelt forest in Kekeya, and it has brought hope to everyone here,” expressed Song, reflecting on the monumental accomplishment.
Reference(s):
Xinjiang's Kekeya becomes green miracle in China's largest desert
cgtn.com
