Many local governments have increased their efforts against water pollution after a national action plan was issued on April 16. Zhejiang province stands as an example of the effectiveness of such efforts. Zheng Jinran reports in Hangzhou.

Pujiang county in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, was famous for its crystal glassware, which during its prime accounted for 85 percent of the nationwide output and brought huge wealth to the residents. But this industry also brought severe water pollution.

"The rivers looked like milk and were not drinkable," said Zhu Yuewen, a 74-year-old who has lived all of his life in the southern county.