Taiyuan, capital of North China's Shanxi province, is beefing up efforts to improve ecological conditions of Fenhe River in a bid to protect the environment and prevent natural disasters.

The city has carried out the fourth phase of Fenhe River treatment and beautification project. The project covers 10-kilometer river course and river bank, including a water storage section for flood control and an ecological enhancement section.

The fourth phase of Fenhe River treatment and beautification project received an investment of 1.48 billion yuan ($211.44 million) and is expected to be finished by the end of 2021.

Wen Shaohua, an official with Taiyuan Fenhe River Scenic Zone Management Committee, said the project allows Fenhe River to have the capacity to temporarily store flood waters during high runoff events. The ecological restoration section also helps improve habitats for various plants and animals, protects biodiversity, provides fresh air for neighboring residents, and adjusts climate.