I live in Shanghai and I go to school by bicycle every day. It is convenient to me but I have to put up with the polluted air. Like many others, every morning I hurry along with a mask over my mouth to protect myself from the exhaust fumes all over the city.

　　It is the rapid growth of the number of motor vehicles that is chiefly responsible for deteriorating air quality. A heavy fine should be imposed on the owners of the vehicles found emitting excessive exhaust fumes. In addition, the authorities concerned should encourage the use of public transportation by improving the bus system. In short, the pollution problem has become so critical that nothing but concrete, positive, and strong action can lead to noticeable improvement.