By CGTN's Hu Chao

China’s two-day national college entrance exams, or Gaokao, kicked off on Wednesday. For decades, the nationwide examination has been the most challenging test for Chinese students. But now, various departments across the country are working to minimize additional stress on the youngsters. 

Green ribbons on taxis mean free rides for Gaokao candidates. /CGTN Photo

It’s only six o’clock in the morning in Taiyuan, the capital of north China’s Shanxi Province, but dozens of cabs have already queued up by a road, waiting to give students sitting for the Gaokao free rides to their testing sites. Many taxi drivers have been volunteering to transport students every year for a decade now.

Female taxi drivers joined the team of volunteers. /CGTN Photo

Zhao Fengxiang, head of a volunteer taxi team, said nothing is more important than the college entrance exam during these two days and added that they are trying their best to help students take their tests on time.

Many parents feel anxious as their children take the exams. /CGTN Photo

One team mother told CGTN that parents feel nervous about their child arriving late for their exams because of traffic jams, noting that they are now relieved and quite touched as these taxi drivers are helping them.

Taiyuan has over 1,000 volunteer taxi drivers offering free rides for Gaokao students this year. /CGTN Photo

This year, the city has over 1,000 volunteer taxi drivers taking students to exams free of charge. Different teams are waiting in different locations across the city.

Parents wait outside as students take the exams. /CGTN Photo

The local government is also looking at other ways to facilitate the students' commute and alleviate some of their stress. Authorities are trying to ensure a smooth flow of traffic and minimal distraction during the days of the college entrance exams.

Buses in the city are all free during during the two days of the exams. /CGTN Photo

The local government initiated a new round of vehicle restrictions based on license plate numbers from Monday to Thursday to help ease traffic congestion. All buses in the city will be free of charge on Wednesday and Thursday.

Various departments are striving to ensure a quiet surrounding for students. /CGTN Photo

Authorities also said all parks in the city should minimize noise pollution, with many outdoor activities already cancelled so students can take their tests in peace.