Shenzhen's innovation on traffic control

Updated: 2011-07-29 11:53

By Yan Weijue (chinadaily.com.cn)

Shenzhen, host city of the 26th Universiade, has shifted its stance on traffic control from imposing to encouraging, which has been well received by the citizens.

The city government withdrew its initial even-odd license plate plan in mid July, and instead launched a green commuting campaign, calling for car owners in Shenzhen to reduce car usage from Aug 4 to 24 in a bid to cut carbon emissions and thus create a green environment for the Universiade, which will be held from Aug 12 to 23.

The number of those who have applied to stop car usage during the Universiade period has reached 159,006 as of Thursday.

In keeping with its green standards, this year Shenzhen put 2,011 new-energy vehicles into use across the city and opened five subway lines, with a total length of 178 kilometers, significantly relieving traffic congestion.

About Shenzhen

Shenzhen is located at the southern tip of the Chinese mainland on the eastern bank of the mouth of the Pearl River and neighbors Hong Kong.

The brainchild of Deng Xiaoping, the country's first special economic zone was established here by the Chinese Government in 1980. It has been a touchstone for China's reform and opening-up policy since then.