China has launched efforts to protect its 2,500-year-old Grand Canal, the world's longest artificial waterway, the government said.
The culture ministry has already banned construction near the canal and sought public donations to help conserve the waterway, Xinhua reported Saturday.The government encourages individuals and organisations to participate in the preservation of the Grand Canal, a draft regulation of the ministry said.
The regulations are expected to be put into effect in September after the government makes final revisions based on public suggestions.
The canal starts in Beijing and passes through several provinces in the north and east to reach Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang province.
The oldest sections of the 1,776-km canal were built 2,500 years ago. Part of the canal is still in use today.
The government has applied for a world heritage status for the Grand Canal.
Norwegian
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