The Chinese cities in the path of Wednesday's total solar eclipse are getting ready for the spectacle. 

The Chinese cities in the path of Wednesday's total solar eclipse  are getting ready for the spectacle.

As we mentioned before, they are taking steps to avoid any mishaps that could be caused by people stopping to watch the incredible scene as the moon passes in front of the sun. Although it's a wonderful sight, the eclipse will plunge a large swath of southern and central China in darkness.

Shanghai is making sure its public transport system runs smoothly during Wednesday's eclipse. Local authorities want to make sure there is no disruption of service at the city's two airports. Traffic police will watch to see that drivers switch on their head lights and marine departments will monitor ships to ensure safety.

In nearby Nanjing, street lights will be turned on 15 minutes ahead of the eclipse. The city promises buses and taxis will not stop service during the eclipse.

The city of Anji in Zhejiang Province is one of the best places to observe the eclipse. Tele-communication services have been expanded to avoid disruptions that may be caused by the eclipse. Mobile phone service providers will send special communication vehicles to the places where people will gather to witness the eclipse for emergency use.

(CCTV.com July 20, 2009)