FAQ About the Three Gorges Dam

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  1. Can I see the Three Gorges and the main attractions after 2003 ?
  2. What's the schedule of the Three Gorges Project ?

Can I see the Three Gorges and the main attractions after 2003 ?

Yes, not only will you enjoy the splendor of Three Gorges but also some new sights.

Following is the schedule of the Three Gorges (dam) water conservancy project (TGP):

In the second phase, the dam will be built to a height of 87 metres (285 ft). By 2003, the first turbine will have been installed on the southern bank to start generating power. From April 10 to June 1, People can only cruise between Chongqing and the Dam.

When the second phase is complete, 14 turbines and a 135-metre- high (442-ft-high) permanent ship-lock will have been built on the southern bank.

In the final phase, 2003-2009, the dam will be raised to a maximum height of 175 metres (574 ft) and an additional 12 turbines will be installed on the northern bank.

The dam is due to begin generating its own revenue by 2003 and by 2009, when all 26 power generating units are operating, it will have an annual capacity of 85 billion kilowatt hours -- or one- ninth of China's total capacity.

The rumor of "Saying good-bye to three gorges" is not real. Although a few of the historical scenic spots will be inundated, the main attractions such as Xiling gorge, White king Temple, Kuimen and Wushan Fairy can still be seen as you visit the most attractive man-made scenery "the first dam", and the largest hydro-electric power project in the world.

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What's the schedule of the Three Gorges Project ?

The schedule of the Three Gorges Dam Project is as follows:

- 5 years (1993 ~ 1997): Preparation and 1st stage construction. The damming of the Yangtze River symbolized its initial success.

- 6 years (1998 ~ 2003): During this period, the goal is to make the reservoir sluice initially, enabling the first batch of turbine generator units to generate electricity and the permanent ship lock to start navigating. The damming of the open diversion channel on Nov 6, 2002 was of important significance.

- 7 years (2003 ~ 2009):3rd stage construction. All the turbine generator units will commence generating electricity, and the entire hinge project will be successfully completed.

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