Police warn of traffic safety risks ahead of Qingming Festival

BEIJING -- China's Ministry of Public Security on Monday issued an early warning for road traffic safety risks during the upcoming Qingming Festival, or Tomb-Sweeping Day, which falls on Thursday this year.

As the festival is an important occasion for the Chinese to visit cemeteries, pay tribute to the dead and worship their ancestors, the ministry expects greater traffic risks due to concentrated traffic flow around the tomb areas during the period.

The ministry warned of traffic safety risks involving tourist vehicles and around scenic spots brought about by holiday travelers, as well as higher risks in rural areas, as spring sowing also begins around the period.

The ministry said the festival may see an increase in highway traffic accidents, and it also reminded people of the impact of the rainy weather.

The ministry also called on people not to drive under the influence of alcohol, and to avoid speeding and overloading.