Traffic accidents in Beijing killed 634 people in the first half of the year, 11.5 percent lower than the same period of last year despite a growing number new vehicles, according to the municipal public security bureau. 

Beijing witnessed an increase of 147,000 new automobiles and 118,000 new drivers in the first five months of the year. Up to June 20, 574 traffic accidents were reported, a drop of 11.1 percent as against the same period of last year. No accidents have claimed lives of over 10 people, according to Zhai Shuanghe, spokesman with the traffic administration under the Beijing Municipal Public Security Bureau.

Zhai attributed the reduction in both traffic accidents and death toll to the reinforced road security control, strict supervision over driving schools and driving examinations, and effective public education on traffic rules and regulations.

Beijing has about 3.73 million registered drivers and 2.41 million motor vehicles.

(Xinhua News Agency June 24, 2005)