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Firework restrictions for Outer Ring Road
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SHANGHAI plans to ban fireworks within the Outer Ring Road to curb pollution, according to a draft amendment bill submitted to the Shanghai People’s Congress yesterday. Violators could face fines of up to 100,000 yuan (US$15,690).
The amendment expands the restricted area from within the Inner Ring Road where fireworks have been banned since 1995. Under the planned new legislation, fireworks will also be banned across the city during severe air pollution days. The draft will be evaluated by the lawmakers before being officially approved.
Even outside the Outer Ring Road, restrictions will also be enforced in areas near government buildings, historical structures, bus and railway stations, marinas, airports, power facilities, hospitals, schools, markets and religious areas.
“It is essential for the city to restrict fireworks because of frequent accidents and severe air pollution,” Chen Jing, deputy secretary general of the city government, told the lawmakers.
Even in areas where fireworks are permitted, residents must avoid throwing fireworks from windows and balconies or disturbing traffic.
Violators face fines of 500 yuan, while companies will be fined a maximum 30,000 yuan. Those who set off fireworks on heavily polluted days will be fined between 10,000 to 100,000 yuan. The current regulation carried a maximum fine of 50,000 yuan.
Residents can call the hotline 12345 or police and name the violators.
A survey by the congress found 89 percent of residents supported the ban. Over 80 percent said there should be stricter law enforcement measures to ensure clean air. However, there were suggestions that fireworks should be allowed on special occasions like the Spring and Lantern festivals when it is customary to set off fireworks.
“Otherwise, the law will clash with customs and conventions,” said Shen Zhixian, a senior official with the legislative body.
Under the current regulation, vendors are required to obtain permits to sell fireworks and can open for business two weeks before the Chinese New Year.
Fireworks, though a key part of festivities, create smog and release harmful substances. Sales of fireworks have been dropping off late as the general public becomes more aware about pollution.
The Shanghai Fire Control Bureau issued about 700 certificates to vendors during the Spring Festival this year, mostly to grocery stores and supermarkets — about 300 fewer than normal.
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