BEIJING, (Reuters) – Beijing warned residents on Saturday not to travel during a holiday season that begins in 2022. This is part of an effort to reduce coronavirus risk while the Winter Olympics Games take place.

China’s capital wants to ensure “zero local infectio, successful hosting of Winter Olympic Games and Winter Paralympic Games and that the public enjoy joyful, peaceful, tranquil holidays,” according to a statement.

According to the statement, the goal is to encourage people to avoid unnecessary trips out of the city and to hold some online gatherings.

Advisories were issued in similar fashion by the Hebei northern province, which will be hosting the Games alongside Beijing.

Wu Shiping from China State Railway Group stated that he anticipates a significant increase in train passengers over the 40-day Lunar New Year travel season compared with 2021 levels. This will put a strain on COVID-19’s prevention efforts.

The travel period, which was pre-pandemic in China, was frequently referred to by many as the greatest annual migration. Hundreds of millions of Chinese migrant workers returned home during this time.

Liang Wannian is a National Health Commission official. He said that there should not be one size fits all rule in China. Local governments need to balance COVID-19 control and the desire for families to reunite.

He said that Beijing and other regions with high virus risk, such as areas bordering cities or ports, should follow stricter regulations. Liang also suggested that those at higher risk, such as seniors, should not travel or gather in excess.

China has a low number of COVID-19-related cases compared to other countries. Daily cases are less than 100 with symptoms confirmed.