The recent price disputes between different bus companies have triggered debates on public transport.

Long-distance buses linking Beijing with neighboring city of Langfang were prevented from entry into Langfang by some local bus drivers for price reasons.

An article in the Beijing Youth Daily cites the rally organizers' claims that the much lower rates of the capital city buses puts the Langfang bus lines at a disadvantage. Riders of the Beijing buses need only pay about one quarter of the normal price for the ride between Beijing and Langfang.

The newspaper says this public service has brought great benefits to the local people, but the interests of the coach drivers should also be considered. With their tax exemption, the capital city buses operate at a much lower cost, which enables them to dramatically cut their ticket prices. However, local operators without the preferential tax policies can not compete with the low prices, which has led to a decline in passengers.

The article calls for the transportation departments from the two cities to make a joint effort to resolve the issue in a way that can satisfy both sides.

In conclusion, the newspaper suggests that a tax cut or a co-ordination mechanism should be introduced to protect the interests of the local coach owners as well as the benefits of the passengers.