Controversy Over Cracks in the Glass at the Oriental Pearl Tower
"Measures Taken, Safe... Operations Proceeding Normally"
There is controversy after cracks appeared in the glass of the high-rise observation deck at the Oriental Pearl Tower, a popular attraction in Shanghai, China.
According to local media outlets such as China.com, Qilu Yidian, and Huanqiu.com on June 27, a user posted on a Chinese social networking service (SNS) saying, "There are cracks in the glass at the Oriental Pearl Tower in Shanghai."
The released video shows the view of the streets of Shanghai visible from the Oriental Pearl Tower, along with fine cracks that have formed in the transparent glass. The person who submitted the video explained, "My foot was just here and I heard something popping." He added, "It seems to be because of the heat," but the exact cause has not been identified. The area where the cracks appeared is a space in the Oriental Pearl Tower where visitors can have a thrilling experience, featuring 360-degree fully transparent glass that allows people to vividly enjoy the view of Shanghai beneath their feet.
On the same day, Qilu Yidian cited the Oriental Pearl Tower customer service center as saying, "Measures have been taken and it is safe. Operations are proceeding as usual," but did not disclose the cause of the cracks.
China.com reported, "The glass in the observation area of the Oriental Pearl Tower, where visitors can enjoy the view, uses American-made DuPont adhesive and is highly resistant to heat." The report added, "It boasts durability 100 times stronger than regular tempered glass, and its hardness is similar to that of diamond, so it is not likely to break or collapse." It continued, "Although cracks appeared inside the glass, the outer and inner layers of the glass were not damaged, so the overall structural safety performance is not affected." The report also stated, "The problematic glass has been replaced, so there is no issue."
The Oriental Pearl Tower is a landmark tower in Shanghai, standing 470 meters tall. It offers a variety of attractions, including the Shanghai History Museum and an indoor VR roller coaster.
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