Shanghai will observe its second "car-free day" on Monday as part of a worldwide campaign. But the local contribution will be more symbolic than substantial.

Cars will be banned only along a portion of Sichuan Road N. in the downtown between 9am and 3pm, Shanghai transport authorities said Thursday.

A 2km section from the Tiantong Road intersection to the Dongbaoxing Road crossing, will be off limits to cars.

Only public buses, taxies and special-task vehicles such as ambulances will be allowed along the Sichuan Road stretch.

Authorities decided to restrict car movement in a limited area because September 22 falls on a weekday.

(Shanghai Daily September 11, 2008)