People take a break inside a rest area in a subway station in Chongqing. (Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn)

To help people escape from summer heat, Chongqing's urban rail transit operator set up rest areas in 113 stations across the city on Wednesday.

At the air-conditioned stations, a designated rest area is equipped with chairs, drink dispensers and a first-aid box. Anyone wanting to cool off can take a seat inside for free. This facility is especially welcomed by seniors and outdoor workers.

Residents of Southwest China's Chongqing are experiencing unusually hot weather this summer. Forecasts show temperatures as high as 40 degrees Celsius in several parts of the city in coming days, making such facilities even more popular.

A photo shows a rest area in a subway station in Chongqing. (Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn)

A photo shows a rest area in a subway station in Chongqing. (Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn)