In the simulated picture, the "Bird's Nest" and "Water Cube" add luster and beauty to each other. (File Photo) Photo Gallery>>>

    BEIJING, Feb. 6 -- A 10-kilometer underground loop line is now under construction in Beijing to connect key Olympic venues, including the National Stadium or "Bird's Nest" and National Swimming Center or "Water Cube."

    An official in charge of construction for the Beijing 2008 Olympics, Xu Bo, said the loop will help relieve traffic pressure on the ground near the Olympic venues.

    Speaking on City Management Radio on Sunday, he said the underground line will be open to the public after completion, adding that traffic conditions were taken into consideration from the very start of construction for the sports venues, especially those located in the urban area.

    As for gaining profit from investment in the Olympics, he revealed houses in the Olympic Village were built based on the standards for commercial buildings. At present, eight buildings with nearly 200 apartments have been sold. And it's almost the same with the Media Village, where the facilities for reporters will be removed and the houses sold after the Games.

    He said the main Olympic venues, namely the Bird's Nest and Water Cube, are expected to open to visitors when the Games ends, with such plans being outlined by the relevant departments.