Chi River (Hanshui)

The Hanshui River, often referred to as the Han River or Chi River (particularly in older texts and local dialects), is the longest tributary of the Yangtze River in China. It is approximately 1,577 kilometers (980 miles) long and drains a basin of 174,300 square kilometers (67,300 sq mi). The river originates in the southern slopes of the Qinling Mountains in southern Shaanxi province and flows generally southeast, entering the Yangtze at Wuhan, Hubei province.

Historically and economically, the Hanshui has played a significant role in the development of central China. It served as a vital transportation route for goods and people, connecting the interior regions with the Yangtze River and the coastal areas. The fertile plains surrounding the river have also supported extensive agriculture for centuries.

The Hanshui River has been subject to significant engineering projects, including dams and irrigation systems, aimed at controlling floods, providing water for agriculture and industry, and generating hydroelectric power. These projects have had a considerable impact on the river's ecosystem and the livelihoods of the people who depend on it. Major cities located along the Hanshui River include Hanzhong, Ankang, Xiangyang, and Wuhan. The river remains a crucial resource for water supply, transportation, and economic development in the region.