The possible relocation of a chemical plant to the Jinshan district in southwest Shanghai is being opposed by the local residents over hazardous pollution concerns.

Around 5,000 demonstrators have marched around the local government building, chanting "Chemical plants, get out of Jinshan," reported Associated Press.

The residents are concerned over the environmental impacts posed by petrochemical plants.

A local farmer Sun Xiaomei told the news agency: "We are surrounded by these plants. We are not healthy.

"If more chemical plants move here, what will our future generations do?"

However, the district government said that operations at the Paraxylene facility in Pudong district would be ceased and would not be relocated.

Paraxylene is an aromatic hydrocarbon compound that is used to produce fibres and plastics. The hazardous chemical pose risks of eye, nose and throat irritation.

At a public session held on 24 June, the officials assured residents that the planned chemical zone will comply with all the environmental regulations, and will be managed properly to ensure zero impact to the region.

Earlier this year, an explosion caused by an oil leak at Dragon Aromatics' xylene facility in Fujian province has injured at least 14 people, while six people were hospitalised.