Uyghur Region, the vast expanse in the
western reaches of China, boasts a hydrological landscape characterized by
striking contrasts. It is a region where towering mountains play a crucial role
in shaping the distribution and availability of water resources.
Topographical Influence
The imposing mountain ranges that span the Uyghur
Region act as formidable barriers to the movement of water vapour. This
phenomenon results in the accumulation of substantial water reserves, creating
what can be likened to a massive water tower within this arid landscape. The headwaters of numerous inland rivers are particularly noteworthy, where
this phenomenon is most pronounced.
Rivers and Streams
Uyghur Region is home to a network of 373
rivers and 160 streams, collectively channelling a runoff of approximately 474
cubic kilometres. Astonishingly, this accounts for over half (53.6%) of the
total river runoff in the Uygur Region.
Crucial Oasis Ecosystems
These rivers play a pivotal role in
sustaining oasis ecosystems, which are nothing short of vital for the survival
of the region's inhabitants. Eight rivers stand out among these waterways,
each contributing runoff surpassing 10 cubic kilometres. Notable examples
include the Kash, Kunes, Tekes Manas, and Qaydu Rivers, all nestled within the expansive Ili River drainage basin.
Tanritagh Mountains: Nature's Feathered
Aqueduct
The Tangritagh Mountains in Uyghur Region
serve as a veritable feather in the cap of the region's water system. Like
feathers, most veins of this system traverse the mountain ridges, flowing from
south to north. However, geological forces exert control in the western sector, notably the Ili River, aligning these rivers parallel to the ridges,
resulting in an east-west flow.
Elevation and River Lengths
The average elevation of the river drainage
areas in the Tianshan Mountains exceeds 2,000 meters, with the highest
originating rivers scaling heights of up to 3,500 meters. Although some of
these rivers originate from lofty peaks, their main streams are relatively
short, often measuring less than 100 kilometres.
Gradient and Density
River beds within the Tianshan Mountains
exhibit steep gradients and the density of the river network on the north
slope eclipses that of the south slope.
Water Sources
Uyghur Region's runoff originates in
a mix of rainfall, seasonal snow meltwater, underground water, and ice
meltwater. These sources contribute 37%, 33%, and 30% of the total runoff. Spring and summer see a profusion of groundwater, while autumn
and winter usher in drier seasons.
Regional Components
Different Uyghur Region's hydrology components fall under distinct river drainage areas. The Tomur component, with
its north slope in the Ili River's drainage area and the south slope in the
Tarim River's, stands as a prime example. Likewise, the Kalajun-Kuerdening,
Bayinbulaq, and Bogda components have unique drainage areas.
In the arid expanse of the Uyghur Region, this
intricate hydrological network is a testament to nature's ability to
carve out lifelines even in the most challenging environments. The waters that
flow here are a source of sustenance and a testament to the
tenacity of life in this awe-inspiring region.
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