The restrictions, which took effect on Dec 28, aim to increase passenger comfort and reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, the commission announced recently.

Positive feedback was received after similar restrictions were introduced on Shanghai’s subway system in late 2020.

Shanghai became the first city in China to issue a local restriction on the use of loudspeakers and consumption of food and drink on its subway system on Dec 1, 2020. The move won support from commuters in Shanghai and netizens across the country concerned about passengers’ frequent viewing of streaming services on their smartphones and infection hazards during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Many have called for the nationwide adoption of such restrictions.

Other significant revisions in the regulation include a ban of portable electric bicycles and live animals, as well as rules that make riding convenient for elderly and disabled people. It also said the number of children under 1.3 meters tall able to travel free of charge when accompanied by an adult has been increased to two.