BEIJING - Domestic companies have been fined nearly 10 million yuan ($1.5 million) for excessive use of water, according to the Ministry of Water Resources.

Since September, the ministry has investigated some 16,246 companies involved in businesses that frequently consume large amounts of water, including 8,526 car washes, 7,327 luxury bathing sites, 335 golf courses, and 58 ski resorts across China.

Firms found squandering water or taking water without a legal permit have been notified and fined.