Vice Premier Zhang Dejiang made an inspection of Beijing's transport sector on Monday to see how it was coping with the expected peak passenger numbers for the upcoming Spring Festival holiday.

Zhang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, visited Beijing West Railway Station, the Liuliqiao long-distance bus terminal, and the Beijing Capital Airport.

He urged officials and staff to ensure safe and smooth operation of rail, road and air transport, and to ensure the transport of essential goods and market supplies.

"Let the people enjoy a happy, harmonious and peaceful Spring Festival," he said.

The Spring Festival, the first day of the Chinese lunar calendar, is a traditional time for family reunions. Millions of people travel the country to join their families during the week-long holiday, which begins on Jan. 25 this year.

Chinese schools start their month-long winter vacation before the Spring Festival.

The government has published an official schedule for the so-called Spring Festival transport period, which begins 14 days before the Spring Festival and ends 14 days after.

(Xinhua News Agency January 13, 2009)