The Olympic Games may still be weeks away, but already news has broken of the first high-profile ban. No, it’s not an athlete failing a drugs test – its cars that have been kicked to the curb by the city government.
The powers that be in Beijing have been appealing to local citizens to take a green approach towards transport over the Olympic period and now they have taken the decision to ban cars on alternate days beginning on July 20. Cars will be banned based on their number plates – if they end in an odd number they will be banned one day, with even numbers banned the next.
Authorities believe that this will reduce the number of cars on the road by 45 per cent and cut emissions by around 63 per cent.
The city government issued a letter in state newspapers which read: “Citizens and friends, to be able to contribute, serve and be devoted to the Olympics is our glory and pride. It is also our responsibility and our duty. The realisation of air quality standards and smooth, safe traffic conditions is our solemn pledge to the international community. Let us work hard together to make our own contribution to hold a successful Olympics.”
Residents have already been hit with an 18 per cent hike in the tax on petroleum in an effort to drive down vehicle use during the Olympic Games. There is also a ban on major construction works starting from July 20 in an effort to improve air quality.
