Accidents 'likely' to rise over holidays

The top safety agency yesterday warned against a possible spike in accidents driven by an expected rise in demand for energy over the festive period.

"The cold weather, which can hinder transportation, and a shortfall in the supply of hydropower might lead to a surge in demand for coal," Li Yizhong, head of the State Administration of Work Safety (SAWS), said at a press conference held by the State Council Information Office.