Smog to clear in time for New Year, forecasters say

Beijing issued a blue alert for smog on Thursday, the lowest level on its color-coded emergency system, although forecasts suggest the only thing that will be blue on New Year's Day is the sky.

Beijing opens 3 new subway lines

Beijing will further expand its subway system with the opening of three new lines on Saturday.

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Draft law to protect graft suspects' rights set for NPC

A high-profile draft of the supervision law - seen as a stronger step against corruption and toward protecting the rights of graft suspects - is to be submitted to the National People's Congress for discussion next year.

Top legislature endorses joint checkpoint for express rail linking HK and mainland

The Standing Committee of the National People's Congress on Wednesday approved a joint checkpoint for an express rail link connecting Hong Kong with Guangzhou and Shenzhen, marking key progress toward completing long-awaited infrastructure in the area.

Taiwan authorities 'deprive others of their right to communication'

The current Taiwan authorities have attempted to interfere with and prevent cross-Straits communications, activities that go against the will of the people, the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office said on Wednesday.

Rails expand high-speed network

Two new railways will open on Thursday, expanding China's high-speed railway network to 24,000 kilometers.

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Shared-bike firms facing refund fight

Lawyers and a consumer protection watchdog have stepped in to help users of shared bikes get their money back after three major operators went bust last month.

Tough rules to stamp out bullying

Students who repeatedly bully classmates can now be sent to special schools for juvenile offenders, according to new measures introduced on Wednesday aimed at ensuring campus safety.

Cash incentives to keep rural teachers

Beijing's city government has pledged to continue to improve the quality of teachers at countryside schools, as well as boost their incomes, to provide equal education opportunities to urban and rural students.

Beijing CDC sees rise in flu infections among children

With China now in peak flu season, authorities have said infections should remain under control, as no mutations that might boost the strength or drug-resistance of the virus have been detected.