Crystal clear water now courses through the Shandan River following a succession of management initiatives. [Photo/gansudaily.com.cn]

The Shandan River basin in Ganzhou district of Zhangye city, located in Northwest China's Gansu province, nowadays shows its truly idyllic side with a captivating blend of clear water, fish swimming in the river, birds on the wing and people going for walks.

The smooth river, clear water, green banks and beautiful scenery are attributed to the ecosystem conservation achievements of the local river basin management.

The pristine water sparkles in the sunlight. [Photo/gansudaily.com.cn]

By the banks of the Shandan River, the once silted water has become clear, the bare embankments have turned green, the irrigation of surrounding farmland has become smoother and the overall environment around the residential houses has improved.

These incremental changes are making every small river basin in Zhangye a happy place that improves people's lives immeasurably.

A panoramic view that takes in both sides of the Shandan River basin in Ganzhou district. [Photo/gansudaily.com.cn]