Citizens take free bus rides in Dongming County, Shandong Province, in December, 2017. [Photo: Chinanews.com]

140 new energy buses are scheduled to offer permanent free services to help cut emissions in Dongming County, east China's Shandong Province, reports Chinanews.com.

Once implemented, authorities in the county contend the program can help reduce emissions by 5,000 cubic meters per day.

"The 140 new energy e-buses can basically cover public transportation in urban and rural areas," said a general manager with urban public transport corporation of Dongming County.

Dongming County began piloting free bus services in December, 2017. The buses carry around 30,000 people per day.

Apart from helping save energy, cutting emissions, improving environment and easing traffic jams, authorities say the free bus services also make the roads safer, as less people will be inclined to ride illegal tricycles, which are still popular in Shandong.