Eight shuttle bus routes will open this month to link two of the largest communities in Beijing with key areas downtown, the first such services in Beijing.

Tiantongyuan and Huilongguan, both in north Beijing, are known for their large populations, which according to media totals 800,000. The new routes are aimed at easing traffic congestion and make traveling to the city center more convenient.

According to Beijing's transport commission, Huilongguan will launch lines to Guomao, Shangdi, Financial Street, Zhongguancun and the Asian Games Village, while Tiantongyuan will run three to Guomao, Zhongguancun and the Asian Games Village.

Li Xiaosong, deputy director of the commission, said the shuttle buses would help reduce the volume of traffic during the rush hours.

Li added the commission plans to make sure that every passenger gets a seat. "It will be very important to ensure the journey is comfortable, that's how the shuttle bus will attract more residents to choose them rather than cars."

The communities launched their respective online application process last Friday and more than 300 residents in total have applied so far.

According to Chong Er, a resident in charge of applications, the Huilongguan to Guomao line, which will cost 546 yuan a month, has attracted the most attention, with more than 50 applicants.

The price of some routes has yet to be decided. However, the IC card payment system will be available on all shuttles, according to the commission. The type of bus used on different routes will be determined by the final number of applicants.

Qu Hui, a 30-year-old Huilongguan resident, said she is very excited about the shuttle buses. "As there are so many people living in my community, it's easy to get stuck in traffic. The shuttle bus will mean fewer residents will commute using their own cars and use the bus," she said.

Li said that some subway stations will also launch shuttle bus services in the future.

Li Ye contributed to this story.