A new wave of massive spending plans rolled out in recent months by local governments to boost the flagging economy has sparked concerns over wasteful investments and potential local government debt risks.

Changsha, capital city of central China's Hunan Province, unveiled its ambitious investment plan late last month, which features a total investment of 829.2 billion yuan (130.9 billion U.S. dollars) in 195 projects ranging from constructing an airport and exhibition halls to renovating run-down towns.

Before Changsha rolled out its plans, Nanjing, capital of east China's Jiangsu Province, set out favorable policies designed to spur its economy, including stepping up investment efforts.

These plans came as China's central government has shifted its focus to steadying growth amid the slowing economy, which dipped to a three-year low of 7.6 percent in the second quarter, and put the public on alert for possible consequences.

"Exhibition centers that have been built in some cities are seldom used," netizen "Robbin-Morgan" commented on the news portal Sina. "They will be a waste."

"yneszhdgd" also voiced his concerns on the blog, writing, "Inadequate government funds could hardly cover so many projects. The massive investment plan means the beginning of half-done projects."

Others have warned of industrial overcapacity as investment projects in different regions may overlap.

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