All the metro trains in service have been replaced by new and more comfortable air-conditioned versions equipped with video screens in preparation for 2008, Wang Dexing, president of the Beijing metro Corp.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)