After the Shenzhen Metro first phase opens at the end of this year, passengers traveling within the city could expect a "seamless" link between the Metro and buses, the municipal communications bureau said.

When the first stage is finished in December, a great dependence on bus lines is anticipated.

According to the bureau, a "seamless" transport network would be implemented step by step.

"An interim report on a seamless transport system has just been finished by the project team, and a single payment card was proposed for the whole transport system," said a spokesman from the communications bureau.

Three to four entrances to the nearest metro station will be built around bus stops.

In big stations such as Window of the World and Luohu Railway Station, bus stops are expected to be transformed into joint terminals located just above Metro stations.

Shuttle buses for disabled people or others in need are also being considered.

(Shenzhen Daily July 22, 2004)