Businesses benefit from 'gaokao economy'
Updated: 2013-06-07 02:16
By Luo Wangshu in Chongqing, Wang Hongyi in Shanghai and Zhao Xinying in Beijing (China Daily)
|
|||||||||||
Cabbies give kids free rides
While many companies are cashing in on the national college entrance examination, or gaokao, not everyone is out to make a profit.
A cab driver pastes a "free for gaokao students" sticker on his windshield in Chongqing on Thursday. CHEN SHICHUAN / FOR CHINA DAILY |
In Chongqing, more than 500 taxis will be offering free rides for youngsters taking the exam.
Cheng Zhu, operations director at Chongqing Taxi Co, said the State-owned company has set aside 100 of its 1,000 cabs for gaokao students on Friday and Saturday. Another 20 cabs will be on standby in case of emergencies.
He said booking hotlines were open from May 30 to June 1, adding that the company has been providing the free service for eight years.
Huang Min, who will be among the drivers transporting the students, said he may lose money during the exam, but it is worth it.
"Time is money for cabbies," said the 43-year-old, who earns 150 to 200 yuan ($24-$32) a day. "I may miss the rush hours during the gaokao, but compared with the joy I get from helping students, the money doesn't matter.
"These children spend years studying. I want to provide as much help as possible," said Huang, who has a 10-year-old daughter.
Another four companies in Chongqing will also offer free rides this year.
- LUO WANGSHU
Related Stories
Ambulances to be ready outside gaokao site 2013-06-06 21:46
Ministry vows to fight cheating in gaokao exams 2013-06-05 21:58
Heavy rain expected during gaokao 2013-06-04 14:40
Gaokao candidates know how to ease stress 2013-05-29 18:33
Gaokao reform needs cooperation 2013-01-03 18:25
Today's Top News
Beijing to host International Tourism Expo
Premier Li meets former US treasury secretary
China, ASEAN nations discuss S China Sea issue
China launches EU wine probe after solar tariffs
Nations sign up to better future
Three arrested for rape of US woman in India
ROK agrees to talk with DPRK
China calls for dialogue after EU solar panel duties
Hot Topics
Lunar probe , China growth forecasts, Emission rules get tougher, China seen through 'colored lens', International board,
Editor's Picks
President Xi visits 4 countries |
Hunting for clues to fire |
No giving up in finding survivors |
Help at home is maid to order |
From mystery to history |
Etiquette: The class that teaches class |