The world's first commercial magnetic levitation train has canceled all trips during the holiday to prevent the spread of SARS, Shanghai Maglev Transportation Develop-ment Co said yesterday.

"Despite the huge economic loss, we put people's health first," said Chen Yifan of SMT. "Those people who have already bought tickets for the period can get a refund at the outlets where they booked tickets."

Chen estimated that the company could lose as much as 5 million yuan (US$602,410) as a result of the cancellation of the trips.

The company originally planned to run 12 trips a day during the holiday.

It began selling tickets for the holiday - at 150 yuan for regular seats or 300 yuan for the VIP section - in mid-April.

"Since the maglev train is completely closed and depends solely on its ventilation system, we are disinfecting the carriages from time to time to keep it clean," said Chen. "The company might also look at a new design to improve the train's ventilation."

(eastday.com April 24, 2003)