Thousands protest call to curb incense burning in Taiwan

Worshippers dressed in costumes react during a religion parade against the government's policy to cut down paper burnings in an attempt to improve air quality in Taipei, Taiwan on July 23, 2017. -Reuters

TAIPEI: The sound of clanging cymbals and blaring horns filled downtown Taipei on Sunday as thousands marched in a colourful Taoist procession, protesting a government call to cut back on the burning of incense sticks.

About 100 temples took part in the demonstration, where performers carried statues of Taoist gods on their shoulders while others danced in larger-than-life costumes.