The river, a water source for millions of Chinese people, is under threat after an accident last week along the Weihe River a tributary of the Yellow.

Chinese officials claim the leak, from a pipeline in northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, is ‘under control’, with its owners China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) securing it on Saturday (January 2).

The company said it has immediately shut down the pipeline when the accident, which led to ‘large amounts of’ diesel fuel leaking into Chishui River, as well as the Weihe.

It also said the accident was caused by a third party carrying out construction at the site, although the firm did not say how much oil had leaked.

Around 700 workers are using floating dams, solidifying agents and other methods are being used to stop the flow of the oil.

Local environmental authorities are also carrying out regular checks along numerous sections of the river to make sure the water remains drinkable.

Luke Walsh

Action inspires action. Stay ahead of the curve with sustainability and energy newsletters from edie

Subscribe