BEIJING - Beijing on Thursday published an open letter thanking citizens for their understanding about traffic control measures for the upcoming World War II anniversary parade.

The traffic restriction, which bans half of all cars from the road until Sept 3, came into effect Thursday. Cars are restricted to alternating days based on odd or even license plate numbers to ease traffic.

In the open letter, the Beijing municipal government said this year marks the 70th anniversary of the victory in World War II and the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. The events to celebrate the anniversary, including a parade on Sept 3, are very meaningful to the Chinese people, the letter said.

To ensure the events run smoothly, Beijing has adopted several traffic control measures, including adjusting bus and subway timetables.

Cars parked in some areas will have to be transferred to temporary parking lots. Detailed plans will be announced soon, and the city government expects citizens to cooperate.

The letter said that the measures may bring inconvenience to the people of Beijing, and the city government sincerely hopes for understanding and support.