Objective  The embankment projects along the Huangpu River are clearly characterized by phased evolution. This research mainly aims to delve into the evolutionary processes and type characteristics of Huangpu River embankment projects across various historical periods, which holds profound significance in shedding light on the intricate relationship between flood control projects and the transformations in urban environments. By examining how these embankment projects have evolved over time, the research gains valuable insights into how flood control strategies have adapted to the changing needs of urban areas. This research may contribute to the understanding of how flood control measures have shaped and been shaped by the urban landscape along the Huangpu River throughout history.

Methods  Taking the historical construction process of embankments along the Huangpu River as the main research object, this research, based on an extensive review of literature, meticulously examines the impact of shifting water conditions and water management techniques on the evolution of embankment types, and explores the specific manifestations of the types of embankments along the Huangpu River in different periods. By tracing the historical progression of embankment construction and analyzing the evolving strategies for water control, the research offers valuable insights into how changing hydrological conditions have influenced the development of embankment types over time. The research expounds on the diverse expressions of embankment projects along the Huangpu River throughout history, contributing to a deeper understanding of the relationship between water management practice and embankment evolution.

Results  This research categorizes the history of embankment construction along the Huangpu River into four distinct phases, each representing a crucial era in flood control and urban development. The first phase, “from Tang and Song dynasties to Yuan and Ming dynasties”, marks the inception and rise of embankment construction. During this period, embankments were mostly “levees” closely tied to agricultural water management, serving flood control functions. The second phase, “from late Qing Dynasty to the Republic of China”, represents a transitional period in the development of flood control technology, which highlights the inadequacy of traditional structural types in response to new water-related challenges and emphasizes the need for more advanced flood control projects to meet the growing demands of urban flood protection. The third phase, “from the founding of the People’s Republic of China to the late 20th century”, witnesses the comprehensive formation of modern flood control science. During this period, flood control projects evolved toward larger scales, reflecting the holistic concept of harmonizing humans with water in flood management. In addition, innovative flood control strategies became more prevalent. The fourth phase, “from the 21st century to present”, signifies the era of the aesthetic development of embankment construction. This phase has seen remarkable achievements in strategies and measures for enhancing comprehensive waterfront public spaces, during which mature models and methods for flood control landscape construction along the Huangpu River keep emerging. The historical division above sheds light on how embankment construction and flood control strategies have evolved in response to changing needs and circumstances, and underlines the importance of understanding the aforesaid developments to create more resilient and aesthetically pleasing flood control solutions in the future.

Conclusion  Through an extensive review and synthesis of historical flood control ideas and engineering practices, the research finds a discernible pattern in the embankment construction along the Huangpu River. This pattern can be classified into two major trends that have shaped the development of flood control measures. Firstly, there’s a prevailing trend towards comprehensiveness in flood control strategies. During Tang, Song, Yuan, and Ming dynasties, flood control strategies remained primarily focused on the simple practice of “building embankments”. However, during Qing Dynasty, the introduction of transportation and commercial functions along the waterfront marks a shift towards multifunctional strategies. Following the establishment of the People’s Republic of China, flood control walls were further expanded both spatially and functionally. In the 21st century, the emphasis on creating “public open spaces” has driven the comprehensive development of waterfront areas along the Huangpu River. This approach comprehensively incorporates ecological, cultural and artistic functions into embankments. As Shanghai strives to solidify its status as an “international metropolis”, the functions of embankments along the Huangpu River are anticipated to be more diversified. Secondly, there’s a notable trend towards landscape integration. The comprehensive transformation of the Bund during the early days of the People’s Republic of China aimed to enhance public spaces. The emergence of dual-tier flood control walls towards the end of the 20th century provided the foundation for incorporating landscape functions. In the 21st century, various flood control types have been explored, transforming embankment systems into comprehensive projects that harmonize flood control, landscape design, and recreational activities. As flood control construction practices continue to evolve, urban water management projects are expanding beyond the singular focus on flood control needs. The integration of flood control measures with ecological preservation, environmental enhancement and socioeconomic development has become a primary consideration. The exemplary riverside development along the Huangpu River, serving as a model of flood control projects, is believed to offer valuable insights for other cities seeking holistic and sustainable solutions.