Threat will not stop stalk fires

It seems some local governments have racked their brains trying to stop villagers from burning crop stalks, an issue that is believed to have contributed to smog in various regions.

To prevent villagers from doing this, a grassroots government in Central China's Henan province has even posted warnings that "burning crop stalks in the morning will lead to one's detention in the afternoon".

Putting aside whether or not such a punishment is legitimate, such stern warnings may deter villagers from burning crop residue in an open manner, but will likely prompt them to do it in a covert manner if no comprehensive and effective alternative is proposed.