Traffic congestion is a problem perhaps few of us can escape today, especially here in the capital city of Beijing. Experts gathered this weekend to study how the city can become more livable in as it grows even larger.

 

Zheng Xiyu works in Beijing's Central Business District. Everyday, it takes her roughly 40 minutes to reach her office by bus. But she's thinking of switching to a different mode of transportation -- a bicycle.

Zheng said, "Riding a bicycle takes roughly the same amount of time as using public transportation. But it's more convenient, and environmentally friendly."

Car ownership in Beijing exceeded four and a half million in September. The huge number prompted the local government to adopt odd-even traffic restrictions. But neither that method, nor putting into use the 6-th ring road has substantially eased congestion. Many tend to travel underground.

A Beijing resident said, "Compared with taxis and buses, the subway saves much more time, especially during rush hours."

Meanwhile, at a conference on Saturday to find solutions to traffic congestion, experts argued that underground transportation or bicycles should not be entirely relied on. The 170 thousand kilometer above-ground public transportation system must be improved.

And what's hindering that is the rapid growth of private cars.

Prof. Mao Baohua, Beijing Jiaotong University, said, "Private cars take up most space on the road. A slow bus attracts no passengers obviously. What we need to do is to give the space back to public transport. "

Professor Mao and his peers suggest that multiple measures should be adapted to solve the traffic issue. Options include increasing bus-only lanes, raising parking fees in downtown areas and encouraging the free rental of bicycles. But, implementation of these measures requires much effort, patience, and public support.