The Three Gorges Project is expected to be completed by 2009. Currently construction is focused at Sandouping, which is located in the center of Xiling Gorge in the Hubei Province. When it is completed, the project will help to control area flooding, generate power, and aid in navigation. Flood control is the most crucial function of the Three Gorges Dam. With a water capacity of 39.3 billion cubic meters, the dam will hold a huge reservoir that will efficiently prevent flooding in the middle and lower portions of the Yangtze River. The regulated water flow will diminish the river's shallow shoals which currently emerge throughout the dry season. This will enable heavy freighters to sail directly across China's interior. Additionally, when the Three Gorges hydroelectric station is fully functional, it will generate 18,200 megawatts of power and will serve as the world's largest power station.