In brief
Experts are scrutinizing the quality of recent renovations made to the historic Drum Tower in Fengyang County, after the structure's roof partially collapsed earlier this week, prompting an official investigation.
On Monday, viewers captured alarming footage of tiles cascading from the roof, sending onlookers fleeing as large clouds of dust enveloped the area. Fortunately, no injuries were reported by the local authorities. The tower, recognized as a significant cultural relic of Anhui Province, is characterized by its massive base which dates back to 1375 during the Ming dynasty. The structure has faced challenges in maintaining its integrity despite its historical significance; the upper portion of the tower was built in 1995 after the original structure was lost in the 19th century. A recent renovation, costing nearly $420,000, was completed only last year to address issues of roof tile detachment, fueling public inquiries regarding potential mismanagement of funds and quality of work done by the contracting company, which has a controversial history.
