Bílina (river)

The Bílina is a river in the Ústí nad Labem Region of the Czech Republic. It is a left tributary of the Elbe (Labe in Czech). The river is approximately 54 kilometers (34 miles) long and drains an area of about 470 square kilometers (180 square miles).

The Bílina rises in the Ore Mountains (Krušné hory) near the town of Hora Svatého Šebestiána. It flows southeast, passing through the towns of Jirkov, Most, and Bílina (from which it derives its name) before joining the Elbe at Ústí nad Labem.

Historically, the Bílina river has been significantly impacted by industrial activity, particularly coal mining and chemical production in the North Bohemian Basin. This has resulted in periods of heavy pollution. Efforts have been made to improve water quality in recent decades, but challenges remain. The river's ecosystem is still recovering from the effects of past industrial contamination.

The Bílina valley is an important transportation corridor, with roads and railways running along its course. The river also plays a role in agriculture, providing water for irrigation in some areas.