| |
| |
 |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
BEIJING: China has tightened security ahead of a big celebration to mark the 60th anniversary of its founding. Firefighters and paramilitary officers are on high alert and buildings near Tiananmen Square had to be vacated on Friday from noon, for rehearsals.
The Beijing Public Safety Fire Corps has to be ready to spring into action for China's biggest celebration of the year as VIPs descend on the capital for the October 1 event.
Li Yangbo, chief of staff of Beijing Fire Department, said: "In times of rampant terrorist attacks, our responsibility is to handle dangerous chemicals and provide assistance in other areas."
However, one of its weaknesses is in fighting fires in high-rise buildings. The highest and only fire skylift in Beijing reaches up to 90 metres, but many structures in Beijing tower above 100 metres.
In February this year, the skylift was used to put out a large blaze at the new CCTV building. To reduce the chances of similar incidents, the government has stepped up security on all fronts.
Buildings close to Tiananmen Square have to be vacated for rehearsals, affecting office workers, food stalls and cab drivers in the process.
China also wants to make sure that dissidents do not spoil its grand celebratory showcase come October 1. Thousands of paramilitary officers have been deployed to guard bridges, road tunnels and other important infrastructures in the city.
- CNA/so
|
