Beijing issued its highest warning alert on Monday for the heavy smog that's choking the city, the first since 2013.
The capital's government has initiated according responses by banning schools and curtailing traffics on the roads.
Many of those who are banned from driving under the smog alert have flocked to bus stops, putting extra burden on the public transportation system.
But the move was welcomed by some drivers, who enjoy smoother travel with fewer cars on the road.