Automotive News

Chinese cities are encouraging people to leave their cars in the garage on Tuesday as part of the world's car-free day. Many people embraced the campaign, taking to walking or cycling to be greener and healthier.

Volunteers pound the pavement in Hangzhou distributing brochures promoting greener travel. Some even take their message to car owners in the Zhejiang Province capital.

"How will you travel on the car-free-day?"

A car owner in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, said, "I will take a bus rather than drive."

Cities set up blockades banning non-public vehicles. Many cities have boosted their public transport capacity to accommodate for the surge in commuters.

In Dalian in China's north-east, local government has invested in building high-speed rails and designated bus lanes. The city is spending more than 100 million yuan a year to let seniors and children ride buses for free.

Ma Liguang, Dalian Municipal Communications Bureau, said, "A bus can transport 80 to 100 passengers a time, which accommodates for 20 to 30 cars. Emissions made by these cars and the energy they consume are 10 times that of a bus. So we are encouraging residents to travel by public transport. "

Liu Shuping, resdient of Dalian, Liaoning Province, said, "If more people travel by bus, there will be fewer cars on the road. It's good for our environment."

More than 100 Chinese cities launched car-free day campaigns. Cycling enthusiasts also gathered to ride and set the example for a greener, healthier future.