Refinery project sparks debate
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E-mail China Daily, May 12, 2013
Officials at the press conference in Kunming said that a stricter environmental review will be conducted by a third-party body and that the public will have the final say on the project.
Meanwhile, Kunming Mayor Li Wenrong said the refinery would help to put an end to the city's oil shortage.
"I still remember hundreds of drivers lining up at gas stations to refuel their vehicles. If the traffic is bad, we can build more highways. But how can I drill for oil if there isn't any?
"The city government will listen to suggestions from local residents, with full respect for the wishes of the public. If the majority of locals say yes, the PX project will be implemented. Otherwise it will be canceled," Li said.
Liang Weisha, 33, took part in the protest against the PX project on May 4.
"During the May Day holiday, I saw a message from a friend about the protest march and I participated, because every Kunming resident has the responsibility to protect the environment," she said.
She said that she used to be able to swim in Dianchi Lake where the water was very clean when she was young. But now, the water quality of the lake is so bad that fish are dying.
"It's better to develop tourism projects in Kunming rather than to pursue industrial development," she said.
"I have been to many industrial cities where the air is really bad and the environment is horrible," she said. "I don't agree with the pursuit of GDP growth by sacrificing our environment and I'm afraid that Kunming will do so one day.
"I still cast some doubts on the announcements and will join the protest afterwards if needed," Liang said.
She appealed for the suspension of the PX project.
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