To improve conditions for passengers taking public transport, the Guangzhou Municipal Transport Department has revised Bus-Tram Regulations, Urban Rail Transit Passenger Regulations and Guangzhou-Foshan Intercity Railway Regulations.

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Measures to add to riders’ convenience and to address improper behaviours are both highlighted in the revision. Pay attention to the changes, as you don’t want to get caught out by them.

Preferential treatment for Children

Children under 1.3 meters (including 1.3 m) enjoy free rides on the bus and metro.

[PhotoNanfang Daily]

Considering the age factor, those who are taller than 1.3 meters but are, however, not of legal school age can still travel for free with valid certificates.

An adult may be accompanied by two children under 1.3 meters (including 1.3 m) and the two children remain ticket-free.

Students in primary, middle and Secondary Technical Vocational School (18 or 19 years old when graduated) can apply for student cards, and enjoy half-price discounts.

Conveyance tools can & mustn't be taken to the metro

Well-packed foldable bikes can be taken to the metro. However, battery bikes, electric skateboards and other electric vehicles such as ‘hoverboards’ are not allowed to be taken on to the metro.

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Electric wheelchairs are permitted to enter the metro station, if the passenger is accompanied by station staff.

Playing music through phone speakers is prohibited

The sound of people blasting music, games or TV series on the metro is this editor’s personal hell. The good news is this will now be prohibited. So stock up on a good pair of headphones if you currently lack them!

[PhotoNanfang Daily]

The revised regulations also listed other conduct as unacceptable: smoking electronic cigarettes on the metro, generally making a racket, and playing musical instruments.

‘Metro dress code’

This one is a little more surprising, but it is noted that passengers should dress appropriately in public places, and should avoid travelling in ‘gory or otherwise strange’ makeup that may cause discomfort and panic to other passengers.

[PhotoNanfang Daily]

No eating on the metro

In this revision, the original regulation ‘no eating strong smelling foods’ has been revised to become ‘no eating in the metro train (except for infants and patients)’.

Passenger safety

Passengers are obliged to cooperate with all public transport staff in conducting security checks.

Those who insult, assault or injure the driver (or other staff), will be deemed to have disturbed public order or endangered public security, and shall be dealt with in accordance with the law.

Author: Hannah Zhou

Editors: Simon Haywood, Steven Yuen