A rail industry expert rattled hopes of free Wi-Fi on China's high-speed rail network during the two sessions on Monday after he suggested that passengers instead "enjoy the scenery."

Wang Mengshu, a member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering and deputy of the National People's Congress (NPC), told policymakers during a group meeting that wireless systems would interfere with onboard equipment, media reported.

While Wi-Fi is provided on some lines, the systems are expensive to maintain, said Wang, concluding that "there is no need to equip Wi-Fi" and that passengers should simply enjoy the scenery.

"Young people are becoming addicted to their phones nowadays. Why should they do the same thing on high-speed trains?" said Wang.

Social media users quickly picked up their phones to chime in.

Some praised Wang's assessment, suggesting travel time alternatives such as books, conversation and window gazing.

Others reminded that Wi-Fi is an essential for those who need to get work done or in case of an emergency.