There has been a recent surge in spring excursions due to the start of flower season. In response to an increase in locals and tourists taking spring outings for flower viewing at the Summer Palace, China National Botanical Garden, and Fragrant Hills Park, the XIJIAO Line, commonly known as Beijing's beautiful western suburb line, will be increasing its capacity on weekends starting from March 16.
Since March 16, the XIJIAO Line will double up all trains, with eight sets running at a minimum interval of five minutes, thus increasing the line's carrying capacity.
To handle possible surges in passenger volume, extra trains are stationed along the line, ready to be put into service as needed. During peak hours, inspection-free exits are to be implemented to cope with increased passenger flow at Botanical Garden station, allowing passengers to exit the station directly without having to swipe their cards or scan QR codes, reducing the possibility of congestion at station exits.
Inspection-free exits also allow passengers using Beijing Yikatong (the Beijing Municipal Administration & Communication Card) to ride again within 30 days by deducting the previous fare upon entry to the station. Fare can be deducted manually at any metro network station for those not riding the rails within those 30 days. Passengers utilizing electronic QR codes will be reminded to pay their fares, calculated in accordance with the actual distance traveled.
An analysis of passenger volume in previous years has shown station volumes to peak between 09:00 to 12:00 and 15:00 to 17:00 on weekends and holidays during flower viewing season. Passengers are encouraged to consider traveling during off-peak hours to help reduce congestion. Given the limited platform space and ticket inspection facilities at Botanical Garden station, waiting times can be quite long. Visitors returning are advised to travel through Fragrant Hills station via the west gate of the China National Botanical Garden to minimize their waiting time.
(Source: Beijing Youth Daily)