In the remote Garisenani Village on the northern Qinghai-Xizang Plateau, winters are harsh and unforgiving. For years, residents faced severe water shortages as their wells froze solid during the cold months. The lack of reliable water access made daily life a constant struggle.
That all changed when Chen Jianchao, head of the Amdo County Rural Drinking Water Management Station, took action. Recognizing the village’s plight, Chen assembled a dedicated drilling team with a mission: to break through the permafrost and reach untapped water reserves deep beneath the frozen ground.
Drilling through permafrost is no easy task. The team braved subzero temperatures and challenging terrain, employing specialized equipment capable of piercing the thick layers of ice and soil. Their determination paid off when they successfully drilled deep enough to access a sustainable water source that doesn’t freeze over in winter.
“The moment we struck water was exhilarating,” Chen said. “We knew this would change the lives of the villagers.”
Since the completion of the project, Garisenani Village has seen a remarkable transformation. With a reliable water supply year-round, residents no longer have to worry about water shortages in the winter. The newfound access to water has improved not only daily living but also opportunities for agriculture and local development.
“It’s like a new beginning for us,” said one villager. “We are grateful for the team’s hard work and dedication.”
The success of Chen’s drilling team stands as a testament to the power of innovation and perseverance in overcoming natural obstacles. It brings hope to other remote communities facing similar challenges across the plateau.
Reference(s):
Drilling team breaks through permafrost to restore water supply
cgtn.com
