Nanjing imposes hefty fines for open-air barbecue

A new regulation on curbing air pollution went into effect in east China's Jiangsu province on March 1st.

Under the new regulation, a fine of up to 2,000 yuan will be imposed for causing disturbance while barbecuing in the open air.

In Jiangsu province's capital of Nanjing, on top of smoggy days, people have also been complaining about the strong odor and smoke from popular roadside barbecue stalls.

The stall owners often play a cat-and-mouse game with the city authorities after being reported by locals.

Under the new regulation, municipal authorities in Nanjing have started to rectify the widespread open-air barbecue stalls in the city.

Some of the roadside barbecue stalls have been moved indoors with air disposal facilities.

Some stalls in the parks have been removed and others are all limited in designated areas.

The local authorities are also working on the specifics on implementing the regulation such as who should be responsible for meting out punishments.