China to Cut Traffic in Half for Beijing Games

As noted previously on Fanhouse, the horrible smog conditions in Beijing are a huge concern for Olympic athletes participating in the games as well as spectators traveling from all around the world to enjoy the action in person. One of the solutions that the Chinese plan to implement during the games is to reduce traffic in the city by half.

[The Beijing News] said the city's vehicle fleet was expected to reach 3.3 million by August, meaning that roughly 1.65 million cars and trucks would be pulled off roads every day. The city will dedicate special lanes to Olympic traffic and increase public transportation with new shuttle buses to accommodate visitors and local residents, the article said.

Beijing officials have not yet publicly announced Olympic contingency measures, but the newspaper said the traffic plan had been completed.

One might think a little smog couldn't be all that harmful but some Olympic teams are taking extra precautions in order to keep their athletes as safe and healthy as possible. While some teams are planning to show up to the games as close to their events as possible, other teams are planning on training outside of the city where the air is less harsh.

Solving the issue of smog in Beijing has been an ongoing effort for almost a decade but different parties report the success of the efforts to be mixed. Also mentioned in the article linked to above are reports of an alleged 10 deaths that took place in the building of the amazing Birds Nest structure (pictured) that will be the major venue for the 2008 games.

Previously At FanHouse
Olympic Smog Threatens Athletes, Events
Beijing 2008 Update: The Air in Beijing Is Kung Pao Spicy
Running Through the Pollution in Beijing Would Be Like Swimming Freestyle Through Ethanol