Tomb-building threatens Fujian forests

A traditional preference for interment and a culture of flaunting one's wealth has turned tomb-building into a problem in Fuqing, Fujian province, where local police have had to halt the construction of a slew of extravagant tombs in order to protect the environment.

According to a recent report, officers with the Fuqing forest public security bureau discovered two luxurious tombs hidden in the deep forest of the village of Youyi, Longtian township. Construction of the tombs cost about 400,000 yuan ($66,130).

Each occupied more than 200 square meters. They were made of marble and ornamented with intricate carvings and traceries.