Investigation Launched into Disastrous Repair of Great Wall
By Justine Lopez
Some are calling it a botched job while others are saying that it’s the “worst repair job ever.” Whatever you want to call it, the repairs made to a 700-year-old section of the Great Wall are coming under fire after photos of the fully-paved section of wall went viral earlier this week.
In response to international outrage, China’s cultural heritage watchdog announced Thursday that it is formally investigating the restoration. The State Administration of Cultural Heritage also stated that it will reveal the results of the investigation once it is completed, Global Times reports.
As we reported on Wednesday, the photos show a long stretch of the Great Wall completely covered in a smooth concrete-like substance. On social media, many are saying the Wall looks more like a modern sidewalk than a historic relic.
Located in Liaoning Province, the formerly “wild” section of wall was known for its natural beauty and has long been a popular spot for hikers and photographers. Unlike more touristy sections of the Great Wall – like Badaling – this section’s lack of tourists, ruggedness and natural beauty was part of its appeal.
In the past few years, efforts have been made to restore the crumbling section of the Great Wall. It is now being reported that the repairs under question were actually made back in 2014, but have only come under widespread scrutiny now.
In an interview with the New York Times, Dong Yaohui, deputy director of the Great Wall of China Society, said the restoration efforts went "very badly." He added, "Although the local government was well intentioned and wanted to restore the bricks of the Wall, the result turned out to be the opposite.”
For more Beijing news, click "Read more" below.