Chinese media lauds Hangzhou's greenway development efforts

Hangzhou, a picturesque tourist destination in East China's Zhejiang province, is endowed not only with the UNESCO heritage sites of the West Lake and Grand Canal, but also green hills and clear waters, commented People's Daily on Hangzhou's efforts in building greenways on March 26.

Other news agencies including the Xinhua News Agency and Economic Daily also spoke highly of Hangzhou's greenway construction, saying that the over 3,000-kilometers greenways have become part of the unique scenery of the city and contribute to the cityscape and living standards of its residents.

To date, Hangzhou has completed a total of 3,036km greenways in its urban, riverside and mountain areas, connecting major parks, historic sites, public service facilities and dwellings of the city.

In only a five-minute-walk from home can residents find themselves on a greenway, according to an official from the Hangzhou Municipal Commission of Urban-Rural Development.

One section, dubbed "the most beautiful greenway" in the Binjiang district of Hangzhou, has become an attraction for runners due to Sakura decorated along both sides. This year, the greenway will be extended to 17.4km with growing forested areas along the Qiantang River.

"Runners can enjoy the blossom of Sakura and appreciate the scenery along the Qiantang River whilst running," said a runner.

Hangzhou initiated the greenway project in 2003. Over the past 10 years, it has built many featured greenways by maximizing the protection and utilization of existing natural scenery and environmental resources.

A total of seven greenways in Hangzhou were listed as the most beautiful in Zhejiang province in 2017 and 2018, ranking top in the province for this.