The Pearl River Delta is one of the most densely populated areas in the world and one of China's most important economic centers. The water supply for the steadily growing population of the region has to be continuously expanded. The regions of Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Dongguan and Hong Kong are already threatened by drought.

The Pearl River Delta Water Resources Allocation Project is designed to channel water from the Xijiang River in the west to the Dongjiang River in the east. This will prevent water scarcity and create a water reservoir for Hong Kong for emergencies.

A Herrenknecht EPB Shield was chosen for the project. The tunnel boring machine with a diameter of 6,250 mm excavates a section 1,386 meters in length. The successful breakthrough took place on May 29, 2020.