Handling of small things tests governing capability

It sounds unbelievable, but it's true.

A country that can accomplish many great things, such as hosting the most spectacular Olympic Games and building the world's largest high-speed railway network has failed to solve the problem of disposing of crop stalks in an environmentally friendly manner.

It is 16 years since the burning of crop residue was first banned nationwide. But during the beginning of October until the middle of the month, more than 800 spots where crop stalks were being burned were spotted in 20 provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities.