Protest forces China to close chemical plant

Authorities in China have ordered the shut down of a chemical plant after a protest over pollution concerns.
 
Despite facing a wall of police in riot gear, some 12,000 residents in the northeastern port city of Dalian took to the streets demanding its relocation amid fears of a toxic spill. Minor scuffles broke out but there are no reports of any injuries. 
 
Last week, state media reported that residents were forced to flee when a storm whipped up waves that burst through a dyke protecting the Fujia plant.
 
Although authorities repaired the barrier and insisted that no spills were detected, the incident sparked panic that harmful chemicals could have been released, fuelling resentment against the plant.
 
Demonstrators have welcomed the government’s move but some have refused to end their protest until a timetable for the plant’s relocation is established. 

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