BEIJING: As China enters sanfu — the three 10-day periods on the Chinese lunar calendar that are expected to be the hottest of the year — some major cities have devised creative ways to help residents keep cool.
In Chongqing, for example, the subway operator has set up rest areas inside 113 stations, which are kept around 25 C, ideal havens from the heat. These areas are located in quiet corners of the spacious stations. Each one is equipped with chairs, water dispensers and a first-aid kit, and anyone nearby, not just passengers, can come inside to cool off.
“We provide help for people overcome by the heat,” said Zhan Yan, a subway station manager in the city. “We have medicated oil and traditional Chinese medicines for heatstroke.”
People using the rest areas can ask station staff members for help at any time, Zhan added.
The facilities are especially welcomed by seniors and people who work outdoors such as delivery and sanitation workers.
“I will come here every day after lunch,” said Liu Xuequn, a 66-year-old resident who lives near the Fuhua Road station.
“It is very comfortable here. Also, air-conditioning at home is really expensive, so I can save a lot of money this way.” –The Daily Mail-China Daily news exchange item
