Three Gorges Hub throughput hits 120 million tons
2026-10-02 20:10:48
By Yan Wanqin.
The Three Gorges Hub moved 120 million tons of cargo in the first three quarters of 2026, according to the Three Gorges Navigation Authority.
During the period, 499,000 passenger trips were made. Daily necessities totaled 34.49 million tons. Key supplies reached 23.69 million tons.
The Three Gorges Hub moved 120 million tons of cargo in the first three quarters of 2026, according to the Three Gorges Navigation Authority.
During the period, 499,000 passenger trips were made. Daily necessities totaled 34.49 million tons. Key supplies reached 23.69 million tons.
An aerial drone photo of the Three Gorges ship locks and ship lift. Photo by Wang Gang.
Navigation pressure rose due to scheduled maintenance at the Three Gorges and Gezhouba dam locks and the Three Gorges ship lift, plus frequent extreme weather.
To ensure smooth passage, the authority strengthened coordination with meteorological and hydrological departments. It improved early warning for severe weather and intensified inspections of key equipment. It also upgraded services for vessels awaiting passage, offering 24 convenience services in 10 categories.
The Three Gorges ship lift began trial operations in 2016. It forms a joint navigation system with the Three Gorges locks. Large ships "climb the stairs." Small ships "take the elevator." These are the two lifting methods at the hub.
The Three Gorges Hub first passed 100 million tons in 2011. Annual throughput has stayed high for 15 straight years since then. It provides solid support for stable industrial and supply chains and for the high-quality development of the Yangtze River Economic Belt.
Han Jingwen, Yang Yihang contributed to this story.
