Beijing's vice mayor says preparations are almost complete for the celebration of the 60th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

Ji Lin says organizers in the capital are adding finishing touches ahead of the mass parade, festival evening party and activities planned for city parks.

Preparations are also being finalized for cultural activities, environmental control, security and transportation. About 180,000 people will participate in 36 marching formations, six performance teams and a background performance squad.

Nearly 1 million volunteers have also answered the call to work on National Day. Security has been stepped up for this year's celebrations to include a three-line defense mechanism.

(CCTV September 25, 2009)