Here's some grim proof that even the most mundane elements of everyday life are subject to the swift hand of awkwardly imposed safety regulations. Time Out has reported that over the weekend, local law enforcers (chengguan) forcibly removed all lanterns lining Gui Jie, the famous restaurant street and all around famed center for spicy crawfish and hot pot establishments up the wahoo.

I mean this street is already pretty annoying with all of the traffic jams and people trying to drunk park on the side walk, at least you can leave an element of beauty to keep your eyes focused away from cooking oil stains and regurgitated shellfish on the sidewalk. 

Luckily, the balloon hawkers and sidewalk merchants haven't been tossed in the rubbish bin as well, and all other culinary aspects of the street are still open for future questionable late night dining experiences.

Photos: bp.blogspot.com, www.globaltimes.cn