Saving a scenic area needs more than tears

Tourists visit a tower at the Shanhaiguan Pass scenic spot in north China's Hebei Province, Aug. 23, 2013. [Photo/Agencies]

Liu Yuan, director of Shanhaiguan Tourism Bureau in Qinhuangdao, North China's Hebei province, reportedly cried out on hearing the news that the scenic area was stripped of its 5A-Rating on Oct 9. She said she felt guilty and ashamed and was a "sinner" to tourists and the local people in Shanhai Pass. Comments:

The public may like to see the confession or apologies from the officials of the local tourism authority that is responsible for the scenic spot being downgraded in the rankings, but the official's reaction seems over the top. Crying "I am the sinner to Shanhaiguan" sounds like overacting. Especially as it is not one person's fault. As a matter of fact, other tourist attractions are faced with the same problems and clearly it should be seen as a widespread issue that needs addressing.

New Express, Oct 20

The entire denouncement reflected on the management chaos in the tourism zone even though the natural resources deserve the top ranking. It just needs some adjustment and improvement. Shanhaiguan tourism zone management is just one spot of a large leopard, that is, the entire tourism management system should be fixed from top down.

The Paper, Oct 19

The local tourism officials responded very swiftly and you can see the reaction to their words of repentance. But the key point is why the remedial actions always come after the exposure and punishments. It is always better to fix the problems and management loopholes early rather than cry about the consequences later.

Beijing Times, Oct 20