Moment of Neti-zen: Funeral rite suspended during APEC summit

Source:Global Times Published: 2014-11-4 21:28:02

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A crematorium in Beijing has suspended the burning of  clothes and other belongings of the deceased in an effort to reduce air pollution during the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Beijing from November 5 to 11, The Beijing News reported on Tuesday.

The Babaoshan Revolutionary Cemetery in Shijingshan district said that it would halt incinerating the clothes between November 1 and 15. Funeral wreaths and couplet papers will only be burned between 7 pm and 10 pm, read the October 27 notice.

According to Chinese tradition, mourners burn the clothing of the deceased in the belief that it can be worn in the afterlife.

A Babaoshan spokesman explained that the measure is in line with municipal Regulations on Air Pollution Prevention and Control.

However, Netizens were dying to share their disapproval.

"We'd better not die during that time, otherwise we have to go to heaven naked," wrote a Net user.

"Farts also pollute the air. I suggest not eating beans until APEC ends," a Sina Weibo user commented.

"Is it so important to hold a meeting that impedes on the everyday lives of millions of Beijing residents?" another Web user asked.

To further curb pollution, the local government will limit cars on alternating days based on odd or even license plate numbers, media reported.



Posted in: Odd News

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