Five bus companies, which have been initially approved by municipal traffic authorities as up to standard for cleanliness, will seek public opinion of their standards for the next three months.

The five companies are Shenzhan, Xihu, Pengxiang, Shenkong and Shenzhen Bus Co. Ltd.

Many residents who take buses may have found the buses have been cleaner in recent months, and with less emissions of exhaust smoke. This was attributed to a 100-day campaign launched in March targeting dirty and environmentally harmful buses. The campaign aims to make buses clean and safe for residents.

If approved, companies with buses meeting the standards set by the traffic administration authorities can be declared "clean bus companies" and be presented with a plaque. The standards cover sanitation and environmental protection. Buses should be in good condition, with clean interiors and exteriors, standard advertisements and without scratches, damage or excessive exhaust emissions.

When unclean buses are found, their plaques will be taken back.

Residents can call 8322-8000 and 8322-8111 to voice their opinion.

(Shenzhen Daily July 21, 2004)