Beijing to offer drivers free maps

(Shanghai Daily)
Updated: 2007-02-28 13:43

Out-of-town drivers entering Beijing will get a free computer-generated map at 16 entry and exit points on cross-city highways starting next month to show the shortest way to selected destinations inside the Chinese capital.

Along with the shortest driving route, traffic signs along the route also will be marked in the computer-generated maps, Beijing News reported yesterday.

The so-called "best route" is based on vehicle model, distance, real-time traffic conditions and possible driving period, said the report.

Drivers of the vehicles carrying dangerous chemicals will be informed of the banned sections and time periods.

The measure has been in a trial operation at the Majuqiao outlet on the Beijing exit of Jingjintang Highway for more than four months.

The measure enlarges use of the current road-data system and it will help ease traffic conjestion, said an official with Beijing's transport administration.

An earlier survey conducted at the 16 exits showed that 65.2 percent of motorists said they knew little about traffic conditions in Beijing and that 81.1 percent were in urgent need of free road guides.




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