Chinese powerhouse plans no-begging zone

Guangzhou plans to set up no-begging zones in downtown areas and districts where Govt and Communist Party organisations are located.

To refurbish its image as one of China's engines of growth, the southern city of Guangzhou on Friday said it plans to set up no-begging zones in the downtown areas and districts where governmental and Communist Party organisations are located.

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The growing presence of beggars, especially professional beggars, poses a threat to social stability and affects residents' sense of security in Guangzhou, capital of south China's Guangdong province, a local official said.

The local government will set up a special organisation to provide necessary help to the city's beggars. Those with disease will get free medical treatment, Xinhua news agency quoted the government official as saying.

Guangzhou, with its comparably rapid economic growth and warm weather, has become a heaven for beggars in recent years, and professional beggars are numerous, the report noted.

"Setting no-begging zones doesn't mean we discriminate against beggars," said the official. "It's necessary for urban management."

The official said while providing help for those in real need, the government will continue to crack down on organised crime, such as deception in the name of begging.

Guangdong, which borders Hong Kong, was assigned with the task of piloting the country's reform and opening-up drive and has become the biggest beneficiary of the efforts. It has grown into one of the world's major bases of processing trade.