China's intellectuals, students and journalists say the government is unfairly targeting the vulnerable underclass
BEIJING, Jan 24 (Reuters) - Beijing plans to tear down at least 40 million square metres, or a staggering 15.44 square miles, of illegal structures, roughly an area of 28 London Hyde Parks, and shut 500 manufacturing firms this year.
The city will "ensure zero increase of such structures" this year and will continue to relocate people out of the city centre, acting mayor Chen Jining said in an annual work report to the city's government on Wednesday.
Beijing last year set a similar goal to demolish 40 million square metres of illegal structures, but there was no indication in this year's report whether the target was met.
Beijing launched a citywide safety blitz in November following a deadly fire that has resulted in the demolition of buildings that violate safety codes and the eviction of thousands of migrant workers from their homes and businesses.
The evictions sparked unusually direct criticism from China's intellectuals, students and journalists, who say the government is unfairly targeting the vulnerable underclass.
There will also be no letting up in a campaign to sanitise ancient hutong alleyways that last year displaced migrants as many were evicted from homes and businesses were shut down along the narrow passageways.
The city will continue to "close small shops operated from illegal openings cut in the wall", the report said, referring to what the city says are illegal modifications to the traditional structures.
Authorities will also preserve the historical areas of Beijing, including the appropriation of properties, though Chen said housing will be provided for those relocated.
Beijing has been moving what it calls "non-capital functions" out of the city in order to relieve traffic congestion and pressure on public services, with the Xiongan New Area announced last year as a major focus for regional development.
"Whatever support Xiongan needs, we will be there to provide it," said Chen.
(Reporting by Elias Glenn; Editing by Michael Perry)
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