Districts fail inspections

ENVIRONMENTAL problems including improper garbage disposal, as well as air and river pollution, have been uncovered by inspectors in the districts of Huangpu, Minhang and Songjiang.

The inspections by the Shanghai Environmental Protection Bureau were held between July 5 to 25.

Residents made 511 complaints and tip offs.

According to the report, improper garbage treatment, noise pollution, cooking oil and fume pollution and automobile emissions were the most common problems in Huangpu District.

In Minhang District, water quality in some rivers failed to meet standards. Sewage were found to be discharged directly into some rivers. Dust from construction sites needed to be dealt with.

The environment of the district’s Wujing Industrial Zone and some port yards needed to be improved.

In Songjiang District, some heavy metal enterprises were polluting the environment.

More than 340 companies and the responsible personnel have been punished.

A total of 49.1 million yuan (US$7 million) in fines has been collected. Three enterprises were ordered to be shut down.

The environment watchdog required local authorities in the three districts to hand in remediation plans to the city government within 30 business days.