China has launched a large river-control project to prevent devastating flood in the Huaihe River in central-eastern China, according to official sources.
The project is located at Linhuai Port which encompasses Henan and Anhui provinces and covers four counties.
The project, funded by the central government, will cost 2.27 billion yuan and take five years to build.
In Henan Province alone, an area of 306 square kilometers with a population of 209,000 will be affected. Currently, Gushi County, Henan, is preparing to relocate the first group of affected villagers.
( December 11, 2001)