Beijing has just raised daytime parking fees in downtown areas to curb traffic congestion. A notice issued by the municipal government says the highest rate be 15 yuan an hour in 13 zones, which include shopping districts, railway stations and central business districts.

The hike is the latest measure to control the number of vehicles on the capital's streets. Other measures include a license plate lottery system and driving ban based on plate number.

Beijing had 4.7 million vehicles by the end of last year, and more than 80 percent are privately owned. The parking fee hike is expected to get car owners using public transport more.