CPC general secretary Xi Jinping asked authorities not to block road traffic during an inspection in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, marking the first time the city kept roads open during a visit of a high-level official, the official Weibo of the Shenzhen Traffic Police said on October 9.

Xi's motorcade drove more than 150 kilometers through the downtown area with buses, taxis and private cars, according to the post.

The visit sparked discussion online, with many expressing amazement at how the presence of a high-ranking official did little to influence the daily operation of the city. 
 
@张楠伊: Although high-level officials should set a good example for local governments, yet they don’t need to overcorrect. The way VIPs spend time affects all of society. There is a famous quote from the film Cold War when actor Tony Leung says to a ranking police official that his every decision influences the safety of all Hong Kong. In a city like Beijing, sitting in traffic jams can waste a leader’s whole morning. Maybe they need a huge car, specially made for having their meetings while they wait in gridlock.

@吴稼祥: It is not easy for Xi to do that. Excessive security is not because one feels unsafe but to satisfy that craving to be treated like an emperor.

@李小林律师: After this do local officials dare block roads while they’re out and about and make children wait in the hot sun until they're finished?

@那些年3344: This is a first step towards China's political reform, which should be encouraged.

@Kevin5467: Good - Xi did what he should do. I hope he just keeps low-key but not publicize things so much.  

@怪才老顽童: Officials should make way for everyday citizens instead of asking them to get out of the way. This should be the new relationship between officials and the people in the future.

@nj3939: Limiting government officials’ special privileges starts with limiting road closures. Only changes in thinking result in changes in behavior.  The opposition that exists between citizens and officials wasn’t brought about by the people.