Capital mulls free buses during red alerts

Beijing could start running free bus services during red alerts for smog to help commuters affected by restrictions on private cars, according to the city transport authority.

Red alerts, the highest level in the government's air-pollution warning system, automatically trigger measures aimed at cutting emissions, including allowing motorists to use private vehicles only every other day.

Other cities in northern China, including Shijiazhuang in Hebei province, Linfen in Shanxi province and Weinan in Shaanxi province, have already introduced free buses to transport commuters who are affected, and Beijing officials are looking at the feasibility of offering similar services.