June 5 marks World Environment Day, an occasion designated by the United Nations to raise awareness and encourage action for the protection of the environment. Xia Ruixue takes a look at China’s policies to protect biodiversity in Yangtze, the world’s third longest river.
“Are you there yet? The man who’s wearing black is now trying to escape and hide in reed marshes. Please drive the boat and get there as soon as possible.”
An artificial intelligence video surveillance system, called Tianwang, is now used in the city of Wuhan, in Hubei Province, to stop illegal fishing along the Yangtze River. It’s part of efforts by the government to protect the river’s biodiversity.
“You’re not allowed to fish here. It’s illegal. You are breaking the law.”
153 high-definition cameras are set up to monitor the waterway along the river banks in Wuhan. Videos will be analyzed by cutting-edge AI algorithm technology. Once the system detects illegal fishing activities, patrolling personnel will be alerted in real time. They can respond quickly and catch the fishermen based on the evidence provided by the system.