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China Taps Hidden Desert Groundwater
22 Sep
Summary
- Two substantial groundwater sources identified beneath Taklamakan Desert.
- A vast green belt now encircles the desert, aiding anti-desertification.
- New findings suggest more water exists than previously assumed.
Geologists in China have identified two substantial groundwater sources beneath the Taklamakan Desert, a significant discovery for the arid northwestern region. Previously, it was believed that only stagnant, unusable water existed underground. These newly found sources suggest a far greater water potential than anticipated.
This breakthrough occurred as part of ongoing efforts to combat desertification. China recently completed a 3,050km green belt of trees and shrubs surrounding the Taklamakan, which spans nearly 337,600 sq km. This initiative aims to hold back sand and support agriculture.
Researchers are also exploring the use of brackish water for irrigation and further desert-control measures along the desert's edge. This aligns with earlier findings from 2015, which indicated a massive underground reservoir beneath the Tarim Basin, potentially holding more water than North America's Great Lakes combined.
