Beijingers lose patience with disruptions ahead of Apec meeting
Even the dead have been affected by Beijing's preparations to host key Apec meeting. In a city used to disruption, patience is wearing thin
While the Beijing government views the Apec summit as a great opportunity to present a positive image of the capital and China to the world, many of the city's long-suffering residents are questioning the need for more disruption to their lives.
Beijingers are far more accustomed than residents in any other mainland city to the personal sacrifices, large and small, required in putting the nation's best foot forward. But even by the demanding standards of other important events, such as the 2008 Olympics, the disruption to daily routines and important services has many Beijingers reeling.
The effect of the mobilisation goes much further than the draconian arrangements for security and efforts to ensure the city has a few smog-free days featuring the royal blue skies of late autumn that the capital was once famous for before its industrialisation.
The city has appealed to residents for understanding and support for the duration of the summit, but their patience appears to be wearing thin. Diverted or restricted traffic, an increased police presence, cancelled events and being forced to wait for a VIP motorcade to pass are accepted parts of life. But other knock-on effects, such as delayed deliveries, have many residents fuming.
"I just don't understand the logic behind all this or why it's even necessary," complained housewife Li Xia, who recently gave birth to a girl and was annoyed the milk bottle ordered online could not be delivered on time because of disruption to courier services.