Red Flag Canal, Irrigation canal in Linzhou, China
The Red Flag Canal is an irrigation system in the Taihang Mountains that extends across a considerable distance through numerous tunnel sections. The network distributes water from a natural source to agricultural areas through multiple connected channels.
Workers completed construction between 1960 and 1965, digging the entire system by hand during a time of major economic effort. The project arose from the region's need to improve water supply for agriculture.
The name reflects the political movements of the 20th century and embodies a moment of local determination. Visitors can walk along the waterways and see how communities use and maintain this system in their daily lives today.
The area is best explored on foot, as walking paths run along sections of the canal and offer various viewpoints. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes since mountain paths are uneven and can be affected by weather conditions.
An Italian film director documented the canal system and surrounding region in a 1972 film during a time of major political change. This filmed record shows how the project became a symbol of local perseverance.
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