China officially launched construction of the Three Gorges new waterway on June 8, 2024, including dual ship locks and upgrades to Gezhouba locks. Mechanical rock cutting will enable passage of 10,000-ton vessels, significantly enhancing capacity on the Yangtze River.

Social Context

The project implements China’s National Waterway Network Plan (2021–2035), prioritizing inland waterway modernization to reduce freight carbon intensity. It exemplifies state-led infrastructure investment under the ‘New Infrastructure’ initiative and adheres to strict ecological impact assessments mandated by the Yangtze Protection Law.

Safety Tip

Vessel operators should monitor official Yangtze Navigation Bureau bulletins for phased lock closures and updated transit protocols during construction periods.