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Parking spaces close to Paralympic venues

By Li Aoxue (

China Daily

)
Updated: 2008-08-29 09:37

Special parking spaces have been designated at Paralympic Games venues for the convenience of athletes and disabled spectators, the Beijing traffic management bureau said Thursday.

"The parking spaces greatly reduce the walking distance to the venues and security checks," Wang Li, deputy director of the Beijing traffic management bureau, said.

Disabled spectators using special vehicles, such as electric-powered tricycles, will be allowed access to the venues via special lanes.

More than 750 traffic lights have been fitted with sound devices in the Olympic Green to alert the disabled to signal changes, and the time they have to cross the road.

Other sound signal lights throughout the city have been repaired, Wang said.

Special parking spaces have also been earmarked on 39 major roads for the exclusive use of disabled drivers.

Traffic police will keep a watch on motorists who use the special lanes reserved for the disabled, Wang said.

Special permits have also been issued to disabled drivers that exempt them from the odd-even traffic rules, she said.

Wang said all 299 private disabled drivers have received their permits.

The Beijing Subway Operation Co Ltd said Thursday staff and volunteers will provide an integrated help service for disabled people during the Paralympic Games.

Disabled travelers will be able to call the subway service center for information on routes, times and transfer stations, it said.

Staff and volunteers will help travelers to buy tickets, get on trains, and lead them to the exits.

The company has installed ramps for easy access at each of the city's 123 stations.

It has also installed information boards in braille at all stations.