# Freshwater found in ancient river channels beneath China’s Taklimakan Desert

https://mins.news/en/item/67137

- China News Service, 2026-09-21 09:53 UTC
- Science
- Original: http://www.ecns.cn/cns-wire/2026-09-21/detail-ihfkhtke4061038.shtml

> Chinese geologists have identified buried ancient river channels beneath the Taklimakan Desert in Xinjiang containing fresh, brackish and saline groundwater, delineating two major groundwater sources. The findings, made near Minfeng County and in the desert interior, challenge the view that the underground water is only stagnant or saline and could support greening and development in southern Xinjiang.