Nowadays a Rapid Bus Transit System (RBTS) is under construction in many big cities, but their construction should not come at the expense of the environment, suggests an article in the Guangzhou-based Information Times. Following is an excerpt:

According to media, trees along Zhongshan Avenue of Guangzhou were cut down to build the BRT.

Citizens in the neighborhood complained about increased noise after they were felled, but no announcement has been made on whether the government intends to plant new ones.

As citizens, they were disappointed they were not informed about the removal of the trees, and still don't know if they will be replaced. They deserve an explanation.

On the one hand, construction should not come at the expense of the environment. Although completion of RBTS will make the city more convenient in the short term, it will not produce fresh air in future.

Moreover, administrators should seek the opinions of the public before they start any project.

(China Daily March 17, 2009)