China cracks down on emissions

Cities should close schools, cut working hours and stop outdoor activities during the most severe spells of air pollution, the ministry of environmental protection has said.

"Every possible compulsory measure" must be taken to cut emissions during the worst smog – including imposing traffic restrictions.

The ministry's guidelines, issued in a circular, come as China tackles with frequent choking smog in its big cities.Primary and middle schools suspended classes last month in the north-east city of Harbin during a smog emergency. The airport and several bus routes were also closed.