Shanghai's city legislators have approved a proposed ban on fireworks within the Outer Ring Road to curb air pollution in the city. Shanghai authorities previously announced a number of measures designed to combat the city's air pollution, which will come into effect next year.

While the ban is set to take effect immediately, the city government will provide exemption on the certain occasion when there is a need to temporarily adjust the restricted areas and periods. The new ban on fireworks is extended to the entire city on days of severe air pollution. People caught violating the ban will be fine dup to 500 yuan (US$77).

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To curb the use of illegal fireworks, Ding Wei, the director of the Shanghai People's Congress's legislation department, has said that authorities will punish those who will illegally manufacture, transfer, contain or sell fireworks within the Outer Ring Road.

The ban also states that illegally storing or selling fireworks within the Outer Ring Road is punishable by a fine up to 100,000 yuan. Within the Inner Ring Road, the fine is about 50,000 yuan.

According to the legislature, fireworks are not allowed in locations that are near government buildings, historic structures, bus and railway stations, marinas, airports, power facilities, hospitals, schools, markets and religious areas.

According to agovernment surveys, 89 percent of the city's residents fully support the ban. As much as 80 percent have even suggested that there must be stricter law enforcement measures to ensure clean air. Residents are encouraged to contact the authorities if they spot anyone violating the ban. 

TagsFireworks Bans In China, Fireworks Ban To Clear The Air, New Regulation, Outer Ring Road, Inner Ring Road