The Transformation of the ‘Stinking River’… Councillor Han Seong-min of Yeonsu-gu Celebrates the Improvement of Seunggi Stream to Grade 1 Water Quality After Two Years

Incheon’s Seunggi Stream, which suffered from foul odours and pollution, has made a spectacular comeback as a ‘Grade 1 Ecological Stream’ after two years of neglect from residents.

Councillor Han Seong-min of Yeonsu-gu Council (People Power Party, Seonhak, Yeonsu 2, 3, Dongchun 3) shared the achievements in improving the water quality of Seunggi Stream during a 5-minute free speech at the first plenary session of the 277th extraordinary meeting held on the 29th, urging for continuous administrative management to maintain this progress.

According to Councillor Han, the water quality of Seunggi Stream has significantly improved from Grade 3 to Grade 1 over the past two years. Notably, it maintained Grade 1 water quality for six consecutive months from July to November last year, setting a remarkable record. Councillor Han assessed, “This achievement is a valuable result of proactive administrative management, efforts on the ground, and above all, the deep interest of the residents.”

However, Councillor Han cautioned that “achieving Grade 1 is not the end but the beginning of new management.” He pointed out the need for a more sophisticated post-management system to ensure that the achievements in water quality improvement are not a one-time event.

He proposed specific alternatives such as ▲ establishing a system to prepare for heavy summer rains and flooding ▲ thorough post-management after creating green spaces along the river ▲ securing stable maintenance water supply. In particular, he emphasised, “We need to establish efficient operational plans, such as using amphibious vehicles to remove sediment from the riverbed and maintain the riverbed.”

Councillor Han stated, “The fact that Seunggi Stream has transformed into a true ecological stream and has become a refuge for residents is the result of long-term efforts,” and urged, “Yeonsu-gu should implement responsible administration to ensure that this achievement can be sustained.”