The first 3D zebra crossing in Haikou. (Photo/Chinanews.com)

A 3D zebra crossing adorned with lifelike marine animals in Haikou, south China’s Hainan province, won public praise recently for its creative design, Chinanews.com reported on Sept. 5.

Themed on “Sea World,” the 3D zebra crossing, which is 20 meters long and 3 meters wide, shows the charm of the ocean in both a static and dynamic way, giving a vivid depiction of an underwater scene where sharks emerge from the depths to chase fish, and dolphins play quietly.

“The zebra crossing is so special that both pedestrians and drivers will notice it,” said a local citizen.

It took a team around one week to complete the project, according to Lin Jing, one of the artists, saying that they were entrusted with the task by the local authorities.

The 3D zebra crossing is the first in the city. Although widely praised, some citizens have concerns about whether such eye-catching pictures could cause trouble in busy traffic. Some parents worry that the images may sidetrack their children when they should be looking out for cars.

The local authorities said that this zebra crossing is just a pilot project, and they will decide whether to popularize the idea across the city according to further research and comprehensive consideration.