Chongqing draft law to protect ancient rock carvings
Xinhua, October 14, 2016 Adjust font size:
Authorities in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality have drafted a new law to protect an ancient rock-carving site.
The draft law, which has been submitted for review at the local legislature, aims to enhance protection of the Dazu Rock Carvings, a World Heritage site, with 50,000 statues, according to the Chongqing Municipal Culture Commission.
"Dazu Rock Carvings are remarkable and irreplaceable because of their historical, artistic and scientific value," said Wang Jun, director of the Chongqing Culture and Heritage Commission.
Wang said that while drafting the law, they not only consulted related departments, but also drew experience from other protection laws such as those for the Potala Palace in Tibet and Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang.
Chongqing has 55 heritage sites under state protection, but protection laws have failed to keep up with development of the sites. Stories of many cultural sites decaying have generated headlines.
In recent years, Chongqing has stepped up protection efforts for its cultural heritage, with a circular in June pointing out specific measures for cultural protection. Endi