Water-friendly public areas to be increased

Prime Minister Lee Han-Dong said Thursday that the government would maintain its existing water management policy to improve the quality of water in the nation`s streams, lakes and coastal waters. In a ceremony at a Han River Park to commemorate the ninth ``World Water Day,`` Lee said the government would also expand water-friendly spaces for public use. In the ceremony, 19 people including Kim Jae-Ok, secretary-general of the Citizens` Alliance for Consumer Protection of Korea, were awarded government citations in recognition of their devotion to water quality management.

Ha Tae-Won scooop@donga.com