They might not have been one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, but the “floating gardens” of Hangzhou have nevertheless been consigned to the dustbin of history.
Netizens reacted with mournful indignation when news emerged that an unauthorised green space was being dismantled by local authorities in the east China city.
Located on the rooftop of a local apartment building, the garden had become famous online with its array of artificial mountains, walking trails, pavilions and ponds—all of which were open to residents of the block.
On Monday, however, authorities in Xiaoshan district set to work on prying the “illegal construction” apart.
According to building owner Mr Feng, the rooftop used to be a barren sea of concrete that reeked of smoke from the hotel below. Over several years, he spent tens of thousands of RMB to “beautify” the area.
Web users reacted to the story with acerbic comparisons to the failure of municipal authorities to provide green space and breathable air.
“Served [them] right the city has no greenery” and “serves [them] right the city is so smoggy,” top commenters said.
