Dozens of cars were wrecked as drivers repeatedly hit a hard-to-see fire hydrant in China.

Local officials in Yibin, Sichuan, say that warning signs placed near the hydrant are frequently removed, reducing visibility for motorists who illegally access the pedestrian walkway where it is installed.

The emergency water outlet, located in the centre of a paved pedestrian area outside a local shop, was struck multiple times, with reported incidents on December 13, 14, 23, and 25 last year.

Each collision caused damage to the fireplug and resulted in flooding, as water gushed from the broken fixture.

Authorities explained that the walkway was not designed for vehicle use, and stone barriers had initially been placed to protect the hydrant.

However, these have reportedly been removed, allowing drivers to use the pavement as a shortcut.

The repeated crashes have led to numerous calls to police and insurance companies.

Residents said such incidents are becoming increasingly common and have called for improvements, including clearer signage, better enforcement, and potential design changes.

Some have proposed painting the hydrant a more visible colour or increasing its height, although such modifications may not comply with current local regulations.