Driving restrictions re-introduced in Beijing

Officials announced on 13 October 2008 that they will re-introduce driving restrictions similar to those that were in place during the Olympic Games to prevent pollution from worsening in Beijing. The new rules require all vehicles to be removed from roads for at least one day a week, according to a rotating system that is based on the license plate number. Many residents complained that the new system is too complicated. The government indicated that the regulations will be in place for a six-month trial period and will be re-evaluated in April 2009.