A woman in Shanghai triggered a series of traffic accidents after repeatedly adjusting a roadside convex mirror near her residential community in an attempt to improve the feng shui of her home, according to a report by the South China Morning Post.
The mirror had been installed at a sharp turn within the housing complex to help drivers see oncoming vehicles and navigate the bend safely. However, the woman allegedly moved the mirror multiple times, believing its original placement negatively affected the flow of energy around her apartment. Each adjustment reduced drivers’ visibility, increasing the risk of collisions at the corner.
Residents reported that several minor accidents occurred after the mirror was repositioned, including vehicles clipping each other while turning and drivers braking suddenly upon losing sight of approaching traffic. The property management company restored the mirror to its original position on multiple occasions, only to find it moved again shortly afterward.
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Concerned residents eventually alerted local authorities, who intervened and warned the woman and her husband about the potential legal consequences of tampering with public safety infrastructure. Officials reportedly told the couple that altering traffic safety equipment without authorization could constitute a criminal offence if it results in injuries or significant damage.
Feng shui, a traditional Chinese practice focused on harmonising individuals with their surrounding environment, remains influential in many parts of China. However, authorities stressed that personal beliefs cannot override public safety considerations, particularly when modifications affect shared or public spaces.
The incident has sparked online debate in China, with many social media users criticizing the woman’s actions as reckless and irresponsible. Others called for clearer enforcement and monitoring of safety installations in residential areas to prevent similar incidents, underscoring the importance of balancing cultural beliefs with modern urban safety requirements.
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