CRI听力: Can Administrative Policy Change People's Transportation Habits?

This was a reaction to traffic congestion and air pollution concerns.

But the then temporary traffic rules were officially extended until this July.

Auto markets in the capital have become wealthier and the price of second-hand vehicles also grew by 50%, as people who could afford it bought a second family car to avoid the restrictions.
Some people have suggested raising the fees as a counter measure.

But a commentary from Xinhua News says such a policy is neither logical nor far-sighted, which has already been proved in many countries. (www.hXen.com)

The article notes no social problem can be solved easily by administrative incentives, whose effectiveness may only last for a short period.

It says the fundamental way to ease traffic congestion in Beijing is to change the travelling habits of the general public, encourage people to take public transport and use bicycles voluntarily.

It further notes the service on public transport, particularly buses, should be improved.

It also argues that many city roads for bike riders and pedestrians are too narrow and in some cases have even been lost by continuously-widened road bridges and newly-built parking lots.

It says that only when policy-makers enhance city transport infrastructure could the public enjoy more environmentally friendly travel.