A public transit project connecting Tianjin with neighboring Beijing and Hebei province is expected to start the trial operation on Dec. 25th, making it more efficient to travel in the region.
On the same day, a single transport card will be released in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, according to the transportation department.
However, passengers cannot return or recharge their cards Except in the place of purchase.
The software and hardware platforms and clearance system in Tianjin have already been finished, allowing the trial of the public transit project.
“Over 100 lines have been upgraded in Binhai New Area and nine in Qingwu District. Altogether, 1,000 machines have been updated,” reported the Metro Express of Tianjin, citing a local official.
Beijing will pilot the all-in-one transport card for 139 bus lines, the Beijing Municipal Commission of Transport said.
The pilot project involves six cities including Beijing, Tianjin and Zhangjiakou, Langfang, Baoding and Shijiazhuang in Hebei province, Beijing Daily reported.
This is the first step towards an integrated public transport system in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region. By 2017, there will be a single transport card for all buses and subways in the region.