Chongming is surrounded by rivers on three sides and the sea on one, making its river and sea defenses a lifeline for the people. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, during which Chongming has undergone significant transformations, including the development of its river embankments.

On Chongming's "Riverside Avenue," visitors can see busy ships on the vast Yangtze River. The Nanmen Sightseeing Embankment is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. However, many are unaware that the construction of the island's encircling embankment is the result of generations of effort.

Historically, Chongming's islands, formed by sediment deposits at the mouth of the Yangtze River, have been shaped by erosion and migration, with the county seat relocating multiple times. Generations have worked to reclaim land and build embankments, making these sea walls vital for the community. Before the 1990s, Chongming's embankments were primarily made of earth. Thankfully, from the late 1990s, construction entered a new phase, addressing safety concerns and improving stability and security.

Granny Wu, originally from Wuxi, Jiangsu, recalled her time working in Chongming years ago. She revisited the embankment with her family and was impressed by the changes: "Years ago, these were just earth embankments, constantly tested by the river and tides. Now they are much stronger and safer."

Grandpa Liu, an 87-year-old resident of Chengqiao Town, has also witnessed these changes. He noted that the new sea walls provide reassurance, allowing residents to live securely and enjoy leisure paths.

The transformation of the sea walls is a comprehensive project. In recent years, Chongming has improved both the structural and management aspects of the embankments. Efforts include enhancing hardware facilities, optimizing auxiliary structures, and reinforcing external areas with plantings and breakwaters.

The construction of the embankments has not stopped. Recently, Chongming completed the first and second phases of a 100-kilometer scenic road upgrade. The main sea wall now meets high safety standards, designed to withstand severe weather. The embankments have become more robust, incorporating walkways, water platforms, pavilions, and other recreational facilities, infusing new vitality into the traditional landscape.

"On summer evenings, my family and I often relax in the pavilions, enjoying the expansive river views," said one resident. "We can also jog along the path, with the breeze from the river making it very pleasant."

Today, Chongming's encircling embankments and sea walls are not only landmarks and symbols of the island but also popular tourist destinations and cherished memories for many locals.