China probes chemical spill

Beijing -  China is probing a chemical spill from a South Korean cargo ship that partially contaminated the drinking water source of a city in eastern part of the country.

The spill caused tap water in some parts of Zhenjiang city to emit a pungent smell, sending panicked residents to stockpile bottled water, Xinhua reported Thursday.

Authorities suspect the vessel accidentally spilled phenol when it was docked at Zhenjiang. The ship is now docked near the city of Nantong.

Phenol, soluble in water, is an organic compound that can irritate eyes and skin. If absorbed in large amounts it can damage the liver and kidneys.