Heavy rain has hit many cities around China, causing havoc in some areas, but, ironically, water shortages are still an increasing problem.

The Shanghai based Wenhuibao Newspaper reported that the city is considering new methods of conserving and collecting rainwater.

Recycled rainwater will be used for agricultural irrigation, watering the city's trees, supplementing water in the park lakes, underground water supplies, and supplying water to schools

The paper said two and a half billion tons of rainwater is wasted every year, which means if used efficiently, it could supply enough water to satisfy all of Shanghai's needs.

(CRIENGLISH.com July 13, 2005)