Beijing will put 70 barrier-free taxis on roads to provide convenience to disabled people or those with walking difficulties during the Olympics and Paralymic Games.

The first batch of 30 barrier-free taxis, either custom-made or refitted, have been delivered to the taxi company of Shouqi Group, according to a company spokesman.

In a barrier-free taxi, the assistant seat can be rotated so that a disabled person can get in and off the car with ease. It also offers more space in the back of the car and provides easier access aboard for wheelchairs.

A ride in this special taxi would be charged two yuan (US$28) a kilometer, the same with the common taxi. People can get a barrier-free taxi by phone.

The service would start from Tuesday and remain a part of the company's business after the Games.

The company would bought more such taxis if market needs increased, the spokesman said.

(Xinhua News Agency May 17, 2008)