South China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region has ordered
local transport companies to monitor vehicles in use around the
clock following a weekend coach crash that left 13 people dead.
Transport companies must track vehicles, especially those on
long-distance journeys, by global positioning systems and report to
the traffic management authorities on a daily basis, said Chen
Hongqi, head of the regional work safety supervision
administration.
"On long-distance journeys, companies must arrange at least two
drivers on each vehicle and they must work in shifts," said
Chen.
In addition, road management companies in Guangxi have been
ordered to set up more warning signs near accident black spots and
to strengthen vehicle safety tests.
Two coaches, one carrying 41 people and the other 48, collided
on a highway in the Yao Autonomous County of Du'an, in Hechi City,
on Saturday, the first day of the national 40-day Spring Festival travel season.
Eleven people died at the scene and two others died in hospital.
Fifty people were injured, including four seriously. All the
injured are described as stable.
Local authorities are investigating the accident.
(Xinhua News Agency February 5, 2007)