Shanghai maglev train line not on start list
(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-03-06 23:34

BEIJING -- The Shanghai's magnetic levitation (maglev) train line, whose environmental impact has raised concerns among local residents, is not on the city's list of "major projects" to be launched in 2008, mayor Han Zheng said on Thursday.

Han said the municipal government has been soliciting public opinions and would invite national experts to evaluate the project.

The city's congress has approved a total of 67 major projects that will start construction and under-construction projects that need further funding in 2008.

"Those projects that have not yet passed evaluation are not included in the list," he said on the sidelines of the 11th National People's Congress (NPC), or top legislature.

Construction of the 31.8-kilometer Shanghai section of the train line connecting Longyang Road with Hongqiao, home to the city's second international airport, was shelved last May due to fierce opposition from those living near the railway.

The public expressed fears of radiation, particularly as the track would be separated from communities along the route by a greenbelt only 22.5 meters wide.