Hangzhou, capital of East China's Zhejiang province, plans to build 30 "beautiful waterways" as part of its water ecosystem improvement project. [Photo/zj.zjol.com.cn]

Hangzhou has made strong efforts to improve its natural waterway environment since launching a special program dedicated to the cause two years ago.

The city has now built five provincial-level "beautiful waterways" and 49 municipal "beautiful waterways".

Hangzhou has 470 rivers around its ring roads, adding up to a total of 1,000 kilometers of river.

According to officials from the city's urban management bureau, Hangzhou plans to build 30 "beautiful waterways" to improve the city's natural and living environment.

This year's plans state that Hangzhou will set aside special areas for fishing, freeing captive animals, and walking birds near some rivers.

The city also plans to set up centers for water sports, giving people an opportunity to participate in dragon boat competitions or go canoeing on some rivers.

In addition, Hangzhou plans to introduce more foliage alongside its rivers.

Anybody with suggestions for the program can call 85866236.

A river lined with trees in Hangzhou, capital of East China's Zhejiang province [Photo/zj.zjol.com.cn]

An aerial view of a river in urban Hangzhou, capital of East China's Zhejiang province [Photo/zj.zjol.com.cn]