More rail construction after Olympics

Beijing's subway system will be further expanded to boost public transportation even after the Olympic Games. This strategy was released by the city's head of communications Saturday. The announcement came on the same day three more subway lines were opened, as part of China's commitment to the Olympics.

Beijing's subway system will be further expanded to boost public transportation even after the Olympic Games.

Welcome to Beijing's Olympic subway line. After seven years of construction, three new subway lines are now in full operation. Journalists were the first passengers.

Han Bin, said, " The Olympic line is equipped with the latest facilities. It's air-conditioned and wheelchair accessible...and will transport thousands of passengers to sports venues during the Games."

Driver Su Yue says the trains on the Olympic line are the most advanced he has ever driven. He feels lucky to be selected as the first driver to take passengers on this route. He also feels a real sense of responsibility.

Sun Yue, Driver of Beijing Subway Company, said. " The Olympic line drivers had to undergo special training to upgrade the services. This includes basic technical knowledge, courtesy and awareness of services."

Before and during the games, this line will open exclusively to those with Olympic accreditation, and spectators holding tickets for the day's events.

The Olympic Line is designed with an Olympic theme. For example, this tube station is called the "Olympic Forest Park", it was built under the Forest Park, so a forest feature was included in its design."

And passengers all need to go through a security check before they take the Olympic Line to the Games.

Dieter Michell-Auli, Gen. Manager of Siemens AG Transportation Systems " I think in terms of technology, it's definitely a leading system, it's one of the first standard moving system in the world. "

A ceremony was held to mark the full operation of the three new subway lines. They will increase the total length of Beijing's tracks to 200 kilometers.

The Olympics have pushed forward the expansion of public transport. Yet more construction will be carried out after the Games.