WU-T'UNG-CH'IAO

Pinyin Wutongqiao, town in south-central Szechwan sheng (province), China. Situated between Lo-shan and I-pin on the Min River, Wu-t'ung-ch'iao was formerly a minor market town and briefly achieved status as a municipality from 1952 to 1958. It is chiefly noted as a major salt-producing area, the salt being drawn as brine from wells of medium depth. Barium and calcium chloride are also produced. Woolens, particularly blankets, are produced, using wool from neighbouring areas. Wu-t'ung-ch'iao's port is Chu-ken-t'an, located on the Min River a few miles to the west. Pop. (mid-1980s est.) 10,00050,000.