Passengers take the metro line 1 in Wuxi. [Photo/IC]
Wuxi will put into effect a new metro system conduct regulation that bans passengers from playing music or videos on speakers of their digital devices starting from Jan 1, 2021.
This was long called for. Subway cars are public spaces where nobody should disturb others. However, in reality there are many who play music or watch movies on their smartphones or tablets without using earphones, disturbing co-passengers. As if the music and movies are not loud enough, they also exclaim or laugh loudly, oblivious to the reactions of others.
In the absence of clear rules forbidding such behavior, there was nobody the disturbed passengers could turn to for assistance. Even if they had complained, the subway authorities would have said they were not empowered to help them.
Thanks to the new rules, those taking a subway can now complain to staff members about smartphone noises. According to the new rules, violations of the anti-noiserule could lead to a fine of 50 yuan ($7.6).
The new rules also forbid people from eating or drinking inside subway's paying zones and cars, which too is a welcome change, as sometimes the food lets off an unpleasant smell that can cause discomfort to fellow passengers. The new rules will help create a better environment for everyone on the subway.
Violators of the rules, including passengers who smoke, spit, spit gum, defecate, or throw waste such as peels and confetti, will be made to pay a fine of up to 200 yuan.
In addition, the rules contain punishments for people who are found to have taken the subway without paying as required.
