Beijing’s education authorities have announced that schools are allowed to make independent decisions with regards to whether or not to close schools in the event of orange-level smog alerts, Shanghai Daily reports.

This is good news considering the smog that has been smothering Beijing since October 17, and comes as a result of the smog earlier this month. Before this, the only advice given by Beijing authorities has been to stay indoors and wear masks when going outside.

In other news, Beijing’s subway prices are expected to increase, ECNS reports, as plans are to have an initial price of 2 or 3 RMB, which will increase according to distance traveled. The average price is expected to be 4.3-4.4 RMB.

The plans involve discounts between 20 and 50 percent for those who travel on the subway frequently. Although the plan will undoubtedly decrease commuters, it is likely to hit the poorest living in the outskirts of Beijing hardest. Fortunately for those living in the city, the Beijing subway will still be cheaper than the Shanghai and Guangzhou subway.

Warning：The use of any news and articles published on eChinacities.com without written permission from eChinacities.com constitutes copyright infringement, and legal action can be taken.

Keywords: Schools Close at Discretion in Times of Smog Higher Subway Fares in Beijing