Shaanxi lead poisoning investigation

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Environmental authorities have confirmed that Dongling Lead and Zinc Smelting Group in Shaanxi province, was responsible for the 600 cases of lead poisoning. Officials released details of the investigation during a press conference.

The Environment Department says it has set up 30 monitoring points and has analyzed 69 samples of air, soil, and water near the plant. Results show increases in lead density in the soil and water compared to the previous year.

Han Qinyou, Monitoring Station employee, said, "We have confirmed that Dongling Lead and Zinc Smelting Group is the cause of the lead poisoning cases in Fengxiang County."

Han says that although emissions from the plant passed quality standards, it is still responsible for the incident because it is the only lead plant in the county. Other factors such as emissions from cars and construction could not be ruled out.

The smelting plant was ordered to shut down until it improves its emission facilities. The Dongling Group offered an apology to local residents and pledged to cooperate with authorities in helping treat anyone who fell ill.

More than 600 children living next to the smelting plant have tested positive for lead poisoning. 154 have been hospitalized. The local government has promised to cover all medical expenses for the victims.