A new version of the Guangzhou Urban Rail Transit Ride Code has officially been released and commuters can expect some big changes.
The new transit regulations went into effect on November 11 and will remain valid for 5 years, according to a report by Tencent News.
To explore the changes that will most affect our readers, we have broken down some of the new code’s most notable updates:
1. Food will now be allowed on the metro
Although this is a rule very few people followed to begin with (expats drinking beer and eating chips on the metro is not uncommon), metro passengers will now be able to consume food while commuting – provided their snack does not omit a ‘pungent or unpleasant odor.’ Snacks that require utensils, such as a fork or knife, are still banned.
2. You may now be charged an ‘overtime’ fee for riding the metro too long
The new code stipulates that any passenger who remains within the metro system for more than 240 minutes (four hours) will be fined the price of the most expensive journey on the line of the stop they exit from.
For example, if you leave the metro at Guangzhou South Station after more than four hours in the metro, you will automatically be fined the highest fare charged on Line 2.
3. Metro fares may change
Under the current metro fare scheme, trips under 4 kilometers cost RMB2, riding between 4 and 12 kilometers costs RMB3, traveling 12 to 24 kilometers costs RMB4 and journeying beyond 24 kilometers costs RMB1 for every 8 kilometers traveled. While it is presently unclear if and when metro fares will change, the new code states that the decision will be made “in accordance with government approved fare standards and preferential policies."
4. Drunk passengers are no longer allowed to ride the metro alone
That’s right, gone are the days when you can leave Xingsheng Lu by yourself on the metro after an overzealous happy hour. According to the new transit regulations, individuals under the influence of drugs or alcohol – or suffering from a mental illness – must be accompanied by a healthy and sober adult.
5. Pets are still not allowed on the metro
No major change here. Pets, poultry and other livestock are still not welcome on Guangzhou’s metro under the new transit code. The only exception to this rule is guide dogs.
6. Passengers must promote a healthy and clean environment
This rule is a big one and covers a variety of ‘undesirable’ activities that affect the metro and metro station’s appearance and sanitation. For one, begging is banned and handing out leaflets or printed materials is not allowed without permission. Smoking, spitting, throwing gum, littering, graffiti and engraving your name all remain prohibited – as well as lying down and skateboarding.
READ MORE: Guangzhou’s Soon-To-Be-Open Metro Line 7 will Feature Art
0 User Comments