Beijing’s polluted Olympic moment
Beijing’s central business district is shrouded by smog Monday, just 11 days before the start of the Summer Olympics. State media reported that the Chinese government was considering last-minute emergency measures to curb the pollution. (Andrew Wong / Getty Images)
Drivers in Beijing are already restricted to operating on alternate days, depending on their license plate numbers. Emergency measures may ban up to 90% of all private traffic as the Olympics approach. (Andrew Wong / Getty Images)
China’s futuristic “bird’s nest” National Stadium, where much of the Olympic competition will be held, sits in a haze of pollution. (Teh Eng Koon AFP/Getty Images)
Beyond the National Stadium, Beijing’s skyline is barely visible in the haze. Strict traffic curbs and factory closures for miles around have succeeded in sapping economic life but have failed to bring air quality to acceptable levels. (Andy Wong / Associated Press)
Workers clean the pavement near Tiananmen Square, backlighted by Beijing’s typical gray air. (Alexander F. Yuan / Associated Press)
