Shanghai residents protesting against the planned extension of the high-speed maglev train may take comfort from a city announcement that plans are still at an early stage.
Shanghai Mayor Han Zheng said yesterday that the controversial project was not on a list of major projects approved by the city's legislature this year 'as it is yet to undergo any appraisal'.
Mr Han added that disagreement over the project was normal, but the public should express their opinions legally.
Residents started protesting against the maglev last year and resumed demonstrations in January after the city posted a revised route on its website in late December.
The week of protests included one in the city's main square on January 12. It was attended by about 2,000 people.
Residents say they are worried about the project's environmental impact and potential radiation, as well as a decline in property values along the route.