The study looked at how economic development affects river water quality in China's Yangtze and Yellow River Basins. By analyzing data, researchers found a strong link between economic growth and water quality. The impact varied by region and season, with the Yangtze Basin showing more influence in the wet season and the Yellow Basin in the dry season. Over time, the influence of economic development on water quality decreased, indicating better coordination between development and environmental protection. Factors like GDP per person and urbanization rate were key in affecting water quality in both basins. This research helps guide sustainable development in these important river basins.