Chinese Officials Burn Prayer Flags Citing Fire Risks

Chinese authorities in Chik Dril County burned large numbers of Mani prayer flags and other sacred items, claiming they posed fire risks during the dry winter season, Tibet Times reported. Environmental and fire safety officials issued a notice before conducting the incineration on 18 November. Local Tibetans said the officials left ashes and debris behind, forcing residents to clean the site themselves. Some Tibetans condemned the act as disrespectful to their faith. The incident follows wider restrictions on Tibetan practices such as smoke offerings, prayer-flag hoisting and rituals now labelled environmental threats.