China suspends elevator operation in tourist spot Zhangjiajie

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 ◆ China suspends elevator operation in tourist spot Zhangjiajie

Operation of the elevator in Zhangjiajie of central China's Hunan Province, a famous tourist attraction on the World's Natural Heritage List, has been suspended for security reasons following a period of heated controversy, reported a local newspaper.

Although its construction has generated heated debate from the very beginning, this 335-meter-high elevator was put into operation in May. Many experts and tourists have remained dubious, however, due to potential security problems and damage to the natural scenery.

In response to the criticism, officials of the central government conducted an inspection and suspended operation of the elevator during the week-long National Day holiday beginning on Oct. 1.

The manufacturer's experts are currently conducting a security check.

"We hope the elevator will resume operation soon," said an official of the district administration.