Guangzhou municipal communications committee imposed new rules Monday to improve public transport service.

The new rule requires bus drivers to wait at least three seconds to allow passengers to have enough time to get their seats before moving off.

The Guangzhou Daily reported Tuesday that a young mother and her 12-month-old baby were hurt when they were caught in the door of a bus in Sept. 25, 2003. The woman's right leg was caught in the door and she was dragged for two meters before the vehicle stopped. The young mother suffered injuries to her arms and legs trying to protect her baby.

The new rule also prohibits bus drivers from using mobile phones or chasing other vehicles while driving. Offending bus drivers would have their bus licenses cancelled and would be banned from driving for public transport companies in the city.

Bus companies were required to arrange training for bus drivers at least twice a month.

Editor: Catherine