CRI听力: Guangzhou Gears up for 16th Asian Games

With about half a year until the 16th Asian Games, host city Guangzhou is now getting ready for the massive sporting event. Zhang Ru is in the southern Chinese metropolis looking into the changes that have taken place in the city.

New roads are under construction. Old buildings are being renovated.

Guangzhou is making final preparations for the upcoming Asian Games.

Guan Ningjie, a local resident, has noticed some changes in the city.

"First, the city has been well-equipped with transportation facilities. Also, the newly-built sports venues will give us more options for sports activities. The old buildings have taken on a new look after renovations."

The official website of the Games says there are a total of 70 venues for the event, 12 of which are new.

To ease traffic congestion in the city, the Bus Rapid Transit System, or BRT, has started operations. The bus system is said to have the highest passenger capacity in Asia.
 
Guan Ningjie adds that local people's sense of social responsibility has also increased.

"Take garbage sorting as an example. Now more and more residents consciously throw garbage into sorted trash cans."

With the concept of "Green Asian Games," Guangzhou has given out thousands of dustbins to local residents to help them separate kitchen garbage.
 
In addition, the government is working to improve the city's water and air quality.
 
Luo Qiuyan, a student from Guangzhou University, says she is looking forward to becoming a volunteer for the Games.

"I hope I can learn more about Guangzhou so that I can introduce my hometown to the visitors and athletes during the event. And I can also be their tour guide. I will help them as much as I can."

The 16th Asian Games are set to start in November, with a total of 45 countries and regions taking part.

For CRI, I'm Zhang Ru in Guangzhou.