The worst air pollution was voted the No. 1 story of 2013 in an annual event jointly organized by Shanghai Daily and International Channel Shanghai.

Nearly 1,000 readers participated in the vote. Around 100 voting forms were received at the Shanghai Exit-Entry Administration booths while the other respondents voted online.

This year’s 10 biggest local new stories based on the most votes were as follows:

01.City has most polluted air since air quality index was established

02.China puts into effect 72-hour visa-free policy for Shanghai and a new national exit-entry law

03.Over 10,000 dead pigs found in Huangpu River

04.Longest/hottest summer since 1934

05.Shanghai’s pilot free trade zone opens as China embraces greater reform

06.Shanghai reports fatal case of H7N9 bird flu virus

07.Heaviest rain for 52 years floods streets and homes

08.City introduces point-based residence permit system

09.Local consumers spend most on Singles’ Day sales

10.Shanghai Tower topped off with final beam