Beijing authorities said the capital will continue to limit the number of cars in rush hours using license plate numbers to ease congestion.

The growing number of vehicles on the capital's roads has led to frequent traffic jams.

The restriction, which bans cars based on odd and even license plate numbers, is aimed at improving air quality and cutting traffic.

The move means that, over the next 12 months, one-fifth of the capital's 5.27 million registered cars will not be allowed to circulate in downtown areas between 7 am and 8 pm on workdays.

Central and city government vehicles, as well as those owned by affiliated public institutions and State-owned enterprises, will also face restrictions.

Public transport such as buses and taxis, along with police vehicles, ambulances, sanitation and embassy vehicles will not be covered by the measure, authorities said.