West Lake in Hangzhou partially reopens after novel coronavirus scare

Hangzhou citizens visit West Lake on Feb. 17, 2020. (Photo/China News Service/ Shang Zeyang)

(ECNS) -- West Lake scenic area in Zhejiang Province gradually resumed operation Wednesday, according to the local administrative committee.

Boat services have been instructed to carry no more than half their normal passenger numbers, with tourists advised to avoid close contact.  

West Lake, at the heart of Hangzhou, was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012.

The well-known scenic spot has been closed since January 24 amid the national fight against the novel coronavirus.  

To date, 169 confirmed infections have been reported in Hangzhou.