Two Detained After Damaging China's Great Wall in a Shortcut Attempt
In an ill-advised attempt to create a shortcut, two individuals allegedly used heavy machinery to remove a significant section of the Great Wall of China in Shanxi province, according to local authorities. The pair utilized an excavator to widen an existing gap, intending to pass through it and shorten their journey. Identified as Zheng, a 38-year-old man, and Wang, a 55-year-old woman, both from Inner Mongolia, they were detained after officials discovered the damage and located them with the excavator on the same day. The incident occurred in an area of the wall built during the Ming Dynasty, known for its relatively well-preserved side walls and beacon towers.
Importance of the Ming Dynasty Section
While certain parts of China's Great Wall have fallen into disrepair, the sections constructed during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) are considered among the best preserved. These sections are frequently depicted in photographs and travel brochures, showcasing the architectural marvel and historical significance of the wall. Spanning approximately 5,500 miles, this Ming Dynasty section comprises less than half of the wall's total length.
Damage to World Famous Tourist Sites
This incident is the latest in a series of high-profile cases involving damage to renowned tourist sites. In June, a tourist was filmed carving "Ivan+Hayley 23" into a brick wall of Rome's Colosseum, a 2,000-year-old amphitheater. Such incidents serve as reminders that irresponsible behavior towards cultural heritage sites has occurred even before the pandemic.
In conclusion, the damaging of China's Great Wall by individuals attempting a shortcut highlights the need for responsible tourism and preservation of cultural landmarks. The Ming Dynasty section, known for its well-preserved features, represents a significant historical and architectural treasure. Incidents like these underscore the importance of raising awareness about the value of world-famous tourist sites and the need to protect them for future generations.
Conclusion: Impact on New Businesses in the Tourism Sector
The incident of damage to the Great Wall of China underscores the critical importance of responsible tourism, a factor that new businesses in the tourism sector must consider.
Emphasizing Responsible Tourism
New businesses, particularly those in the travel and tourism industry, can leverage such incidents to emphasize the importance of responsible tourism. They can incorporate educational components into their services, informing travelers about the historical and cultural significance of sites and the need for their preservation.
Developing Protective Measures
Additionally, businesses can collaborate with local authorities and heritage preservation organizations to develop protective measures for these sites. This could range from providing clear guidelines to tourists, implementing surveillance systems, or even developing technologies that can help in the preservation and maintenance of these sites.
In conclusion, the damaging of the Great Wall of China presents a stark reminder of the challenges faced in preserving world heritage sites. For new businesses in the tourism sector, this incident highlights the opportunity to promote responsible tourism and contribute to the preservation of such sites. By doing so, they can ensure a sustainable future for tourism that respects and preserves the world's cultural and historical treasures.
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