Beijing on target but smog lingers

Last Modified: 28 Dec 2007
Source: ITN

China has spent more than £8 billion in an attempt to clean up its notorious pollution problem ahead of the Beijing Olympics.

But the city is aiming for more good air days, after it revealed it is still falling short of self-imposed pollution targets.

Beijing recorded 244 "blue sky days" by December 28 in 2007, a day short of its 245-day target. But the standard of a "blue sky day" has not been widely recognised by international scientists.

The noxious smog is a major concern for athletes and officials planning for August and Olympic chief Jacques Rogge has said some events may have to be rescheduled if the air quality is not good enough.

Meanwhile, the venues for the Games are all finished as scheduled except for the National Stadium, dubbed the "Bird's Nest" where the opening and closing ceremonies will be held.

Another showpiece venue, the "Water Cube" aquatics centre is finished and the pool has already been filled.

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