District looks ahead after a year marked by significant progress
THE Minhang District government is aiming to increase economic growth and residents’ disposable income by 6-7 percent this year, according to its recently released annual work report.
Among other goals laid out in the document, the district is aiming to have at least 2,100 advanced technology companies by the end of the year. Emphasis on industrial development will also focus on state-of-the-art manufacturing.
Development projects will continue in Hongqiao, especially the Qianwan area, and in key areas of Xinzhuang and Qibao.
Infrastructure projects will include expansion of the 5G network and construction on Metro lines 13 and 23.
In the realm of the environment, work on the Wusong River corridor will be completed, affording residents better waterfront views.
Elderly nursing sites and education facilities will be increased, and a medical insurance pilot program will begin.
Looking back at the achievements of 2020, the government report highlighted economic growth, more jobs, higher incomes, a larger industry base and a cleaner environment.
Despite the coronavirus pandemic, the district showed a 1 percent increase in gross domestic product and added 29.8 billion yuan (US$4.6 billion) to its general operating budgets.
It ranked first in Shanghai with 39,000 more businesses opening in the district. Some 32,000 jobs were added in the year.
Per capita disposable income rose 4.1 percent from 2019 to 75,000 yuan, the report noted. Air and water quality was improved.
During the height of the pandemic, the district sent 60 medical works to Hubei Province, the former coronavirus epicenter. It also marshalled more than 6.8 million facial masks, protective suits and other critical supplies for front-line use.
The report also noted increases in nursing care for the elderly, education and sports. Red tape for business investment was reduced, and many administrative processes were simplified and made available online.
It’s within my capability to help solve people’s problems, and I feel what I am doing is worthy.
Caution and patience are most needed in our anti-fraud work.
Gu has been a policewoman for almost two decades. She currently works at the Pujin Police Station, where she maintains close contact with local communities under her responsibility. She uses WeChat to keep in touch.
“It’s a way to most quickly hear what the residents care about at any given time and allows me to respond in a timely manner,” Gu said.
For example, one resident once sent Gu a message saying that she thought her babysitter had stolen money from her home but had no proof. Gu instructed her on how to spot certain things, like the behavior of the babysitter, and try to collect evidence.
The babysitter was finally caught in the act of a theft and, in the end, returned more than 5,000 yuan to the resident.
Gu was born and raised in Pujin, giving her local knowledge valuable in her work. Her “beat” includes shops in the town to check that they comply with fire standards. During the coronavirus pandemic, she assisted residential committees with lockdowns and quarantines. She communicated with many residents in quarantine via WeChat.
For her conscientiousness and all her good deeds, she has received five banners of appreciation from local residents.
Though her work often involves weekend duty, Gu said she has no complaints. “It’s within my capability to help solve people’s problems, and I feel what I am doing is worthy,” she said.