Beijing beefs up security, logistic support

Beijing authorities have geared up support for security and logistics, as the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) is approaching.

The municipal government on Tuesday initiated an emergency response program, asking relevant departments to ensure water, electricity, gas, heat, transportation and fire control services in the event of an emergency.

The program requires emergency response teams to restore normal operations within 15 minutes in case of an emergency, such as a technical malfunction.

Vehicles carrying toxic or dangerous chemicals will not be allowed to enter the municipality from Nov. 1 to 18. The valid term for permits to enter Beijing will also be shortened from seven days to three days, according to the city's traffic management bureau.

The municipal fire department started a campaign in mid-October to check and remove fire risks at venues that will serve the congress and the central government compound, as well as hotels, hospitals, schools, markets, stores, cinemas, clubs and Internet cafes.

Sanitation workers have been asked to strengthen food safety and cleanliness inspections in hotels and restaurants.

"Services for every post and every section should be assured so as to ensure a successful congress," said Guo Jinlong, secretary of the CPC Beijing Municipal Committee.

The CPC's 18th National Congress will be convened on Nov. 8, with more than 2,000 CPC delegates gathering for the meeting, which occurs every five years.

A new CPC leadership will be elected during the meeting, setting a new direction for the country's development in the near future.