After more than 20 hazy days, Beijing witnessed clear blue skies over the last two days, to the relief of every resident in the capital city. Many took advantage of the wonderful weather to go outdoors or to do their last-minute Lunar New Year shopping. Murky skies had dominated central and eastern China since the beginning of the year. Some reports say January brought the most hazy days in Beijing since 1954. The thick smog and polluted atmosphere have triggered heated discussions about preventive measures, by both individuals and the government. The poor visibility has prompted flight cancellations, while air purifiers and face masks have been flying off the shelves like hotcakes. Residents have been advised to stay indoors. But some brave souls continue to be outdoors, using face masks not only as a protective device but a fashion statement. Enjoy the images as we look forward to cleaner air and clearer skies in the days to come.

Photos by Zhu Xingxin, Wang Jing and Zou Hong / China Daily; Song Lu / for China Daily

(China Daily 02/03/2013 page6)