Guangzhou proposal cracks down on urban rail disruptors

Individuals who disrupt the operation of urban rail transit or endanger the rail network's safety in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, face potentially severe punishment, according to a local draft regulation.

Violations such as engaging in brawls, acting indecently toward others, secretly taking photos, filming or peeking inside rail transit stations or trains may be fined up to 5,000 yuan ($687) for an individual or 30,000 yuan for a group, under the draft regulation.

Public comment is being sought and is scheduled to be reviewed for the second time in October and submitted for a final vote of the local legislature.

Urban rail transit refers to the public passenger rail transport system, including subways, light rail and trams, the regulation said.

Violations that disrupt or endanger safety also include unauthorized entry onto tracks, tunnels, cabs or other restricted areas, forcible boarding or alighting, carrying electric transportation tools, climbing or crossing walls, fences, screen doors and protective nets and other behavior.

Individuals whose behavior adversely affects the environment of public urban rail, including smoking, spitting, littering with fruit peels, paper scraps and other waste, carrying pets or other animals in stations or on trains can be fined between 50 yuan and 500 yuan under the regulation.