The State Bureau of Surveying and Mapping (SBSM) and the Ministry of Construction (with the authorization of China's cabinet, the State Council) jointly announced the altitudes of 19 well-known scenic mountains in China in a press conference held at the Information Office of the State Council on April 27.

According to the SBSM, the data shall be used in activities that influence the public, such as government administration, news reporting and communication, international exchange and teaching. It is the first time that significant geographic information and data relating to Chinese mountains have been published since the release of the elevation data of the Qomolangma Peak, in 2005.

The following are the confirmed altitudes of the 19 mountains: Taishan, 1,532.7 meters; Huashan, 2,154.9 meters; Hengshan (Hunan Province), 1,300.2 meters; Hengshan (Shanxi Province), 2,016.1 meters; Songshan, 1,491.7 meters; Wutaishan, 3,061.1 meters; Yuntaishan, 624.4 meters; Putuoshan, 286.3 meters; Yandangshan, 1,108.0 meters; Huangshan, 1,864.8 meters; Jiuhuashan, 1,344.4 meters; Lushan, 1,473.4 meters; Jinggangshan, 1,597.6 meters; Sanqingshan, 1,819.9 meters; Longhushan, 247.4 meters; Laoshan, 1,132.7 meters; Wudangshan, 1,612.1 meters; Qingchengshan 1,260.0 meters and Emeishan, 3,079.3 meters.

"The altitudes of these well-known mountains comprise important geographic data that could draw widespread attention," says Li Weisen, Deputy Director of the SBSM. "At present, the elevation data of a number of the mountains in China are often inconsistent and incorrect, something that obviously runs counter to the principles of prudence. Publishing the elevation data of the famous mountains in China according to law can help effectively regulate the procedures of verification and publication of significant geographic information and data, lead the public to use authoritative data, foster the awareness of natural resources conservation, promote the sustainable development of tourism, and enhance the citizens' consciousness of the national territory."

After considering factors such as the popularity and influence of the mountains, measurement conditions and national defense security, the SBSM designated the altitudes of 78 mountains in the national key scenic spots—including UNESCO World Heritage sites—as significant geographic information and data to be published by the state. From late July 2006 to early March 2007, measurements were carried out and precise data relating to the first group of 19 mountains was obtained. The data was later unanimously approved by a 12-member appraisal council. The elevation data of the other famous mountains will be announced in the future.

The SBSM will also intensify its efforts to regulate significant geographic information and data in accordance with the Surveying and Mapping Law and the Regulations on the Administration of Surveying and Mapping Results. It will enhance coordination with other departments concerned, devise plans for the disclosure of significant geographic information, and release such information in a planned and phased manner.
 Presently the SBSM is making technical preparations for the disclosure of data relating to the lowest land spot of China at the Aydingkol Lake, the length of the Great Wall, and a host of well-known mountains and rivers.

(China.org.cn)