Feature Article

Beijing is implementing strict measures to improve air quality, a commitment it took on as host of the 2008 Olympic Games. But a boom in automobile numbers could put paid to its plans. Delhi faces the same challenge with the Commonwealth Games slated for

With booming industries, Beijing finds it difficult to control SO2 and particulate matter. NO2 and toxic hydrocarbons add to its problems. After seven years of controls, SO2 and CO are down by

Chinese and international media are abuzz with information on air pollution impacts on the health of athletes. Reports show that with every breath, athletes typically take in 10 to 20 times as much

Beijing has not done enough to control cars The Beijing city government is constantly evolving strategies to guarantee cleaner air in Beijing. "We have to take all possible measures

Vehicular pollution Pre-Euro I government vehicles out by June 2008 About 2,500 old buses and 5,000 old taxis off the road New diesel and petrol standards to be enforced

Rail-based: At least 114 km of railways are in operation in Beijing municipality. By 2008 there will be 188 km. Current capacity is 2.4 million passengers per day but it carries 1.7 million. By 2008,

Beijing tested its vehicle-control policies for the Olympics from August 17 to 20, 2007, when private cars with even-numbered and odd-numbered licence plates were told to stay off the roads on

Beijing authorities are considering increasing parking fees in busy areas to discourage people from driving and encourage use of public transport. Areas likely to be targeted are busy commercial districts like cbd and Zhongguancun, and congested areas like Yansha and Beijing Western Station, according to the Beijing Muni-cipal Development and Reform Commission.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in Beijing. Has he brought back a message for Delhi? Back in India the capital city of Delhi, which is gearing up to host the