Surrounded by sea, Shengsi county in Zhoushan has a severe freshwater shortage. [Photo/zhoushan.cn]

The water diversion project from Shanghai to Shengsi county in Zhoushan, East China's Zhejiang province commenced on June 29, local media reported.

Starting from Xiaoyangshan in Shengsi county, where freshwater from Shanghai will be diverted, the 36.43-kilometer pipeline passes Bodaoju Island and ends on Sijiao Island.

With a total investment of 480 million yuan ($74.33 million), the entire project is expected to be completed in 24 months. It is designed to supply a maximum of 30,000 tons of freshwater each day after being put into use.

Shengsi county is in severe shortage of freshwater. Currently, sea water desalination is the main method to supply freshwater to local residents. Without a water reservoir, the county has a water supply shortage of 2,000 tons each day.

The water diversion project will ease the freshwater shortage in Shengsi, as well as boost the low-carbon and high-quality development of the county.