All the metro trains in service have been replaced by new and
more comfortable air-conditioned versions equipped with video
screens in preparation for 2008, Wang Dexing, president of the
Beijing metro Corp. said to Beijing News Sunday.
Wang said that handset signals will be available on loop lines
and central lines so people will be able to use their communication
devices on platforms, underground or in certain areas while the
train is in operation.
"Metro trains are scheduled to have mobile videos installed that
will broadcast the latest news and Olympic sports events during
Games, "Wang added.
As the Line 5 subway will open within this year and the Olympic
special line and airport line are almost completed, a huge
underground transportation network is taking shape.
Passengers will also be better able to transfer between
underground lines as the design of underground pedestrian crossings
has been improved.
"The upcoming transfer plans along the metro lines will better
facilitate the passengers, "Wang said. "There will be not any
supermarkets or newsstands along the newly-built channels."
(China Daily January 30, 2007)