Take New Look at Transport

The Olympic Games will test Beijing’s transportation system, says a signed article in the overseas edition of People’s Daily. The following is an excerpt:

The smooth flow of traffic is one of the basic factors that will determine the success of the Games. It sets an important test and offers a good opportunity for us to reflect on our urban traffic policies.

As urbanization speeds up, transport has become a vital issue affecting the social and economic development of cities. People are paying increasing costs for transport. How to solve the issue of urban transportation has gained wide attention.

Though people have reached a consensus on giving priority to public transport, it’s far from becoming a reality. Beijing is an example.

According to a 2005 survey, only about 30 percent of the population chose public transport as their means of travel. The proportion of people choosing private cars increased to 29.8 percent while the rate of people choosing non-motor vehicles decreased to 30.3 percent.

The Olympic Games will last for only a short period in Beijing, but to improve urban transport is a long-term issue.

A lasting and comprehensive urban transport policy should be formulated. And, the following issues should be given special attention.

First, rail transportation should be developed as the prime means of public travel. It will help build an energy-saving and environmental-friendly urban transport system.

Second, the construction of integrated transport hubs should be enhanced. Urban transportation is composed of buses, light rail, taxis and bicycles. The construction of an integrated, seamless network will make travel convenient and upgrade efficiency.

Third, the government should try to reduce the use of private cars through economic measures. Fees could be levied on certain roads during certain hours.

(c) 2007 China Daily; North American ed.. Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning. All rights Reserved.