- New high-tech covers hope to curb the number of thefts on China's streets
- More than 240,000 manhole covers stolen in Beijing over a 10 year period
- Authorities previously tried chaining them to lamp posts to prevent thefts
- But people derided the idea as 'stupid' because thieves just cut the chains
Chinese
officials have taken an unusual step in the fight against scrap metal
thieves by starting to fit their manholes with GPS tracking devices.
Councils
across the country are rushing to snap up the new high-tech manhole
covers as they try to curb the theft of the old, low-tech versions,
according to the People
The
seemingly drastic measure was taken after previous anti-theft measures -
chaining the manhole covers to street lamps - left officials red-faced,
turning for sale in various places around the world.
High tech: The new manhole covers are fitted with tracking devices to help authorities find the thieves
Problem: More than 240,000 manholes were stolen in Beijing over a 10 year period, thanks to metal values
The
chains also proved unpopular, with many pointing out they could easily
be cut, and were dangerous for people walking along the street.
One man has even demanded compensation after falling flat on his face, thanks to the chain.
It is
hoped these new covers, which were developed by a Chinese tech company,
will not only put would-be thieves off stealing the items, but also
help track those who do give into temptation.
The
covers, along with drain grills, can fetch high prices on the black
market, as the price of scrap metal has spiraled in recent years.
It has been estimated that more than 240,000 manhole covers were stolen from Beijing's streets in the 10 years to 2013 alone.
Measures: Previous attempts at curbing thefts - like tying the manholes to lamp posts - have not worked
The
new covers, designed to have shock absorption and noise reduction
features, are made out of a metal with a far lower value, as a further
deterrent.
A
test batch of 100 smart manhole covers will be placed on streets in the
city of Hangzhou this month, and - if it is a success - they will be
added throughout the city.
But
it is not just about the money. Officials have revealed there is a
safety concern motivating their purchases as well, as people could trip
on an upturned manhole.
Tao
Xiaomin, of Hangzhou urban management office, explained: 'When a cover
is moved and the tilt angle is greater than 15 degrees, the tag will
send an alarm signal to us.'
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