A woman in Nanjing, East China’s Jiangsu Province, recently sparked heated debate for being fined for drinking juice on the subway. Photo: web

A woman in Nanjing, East China's Jiangsu Province, recently sparked heated debate for being fined for drinking juice on the subway.

On Tuesday, Nanjing Metro responded that eating and drinking, including water, are prohibited on the train, and penalties will be imposed for offenders. This is primarily due to concerns about passengers slipping on spilled liquid, and fears about insects biting through circuits, affecting the safe operation of the subway.

Some netizens argue that such restrictions by the subway operators might facilitate management and ensure passenger safety to a certain extent. However, others point out that the prohibition on drinking water or juice can be very inconvenient for passengers. Making some concessions for the convenience of passengers might increase the difficulty and cost of management, but it would show a sincere attitude toward serving the people, netizens said.

After the incident triggered a hot debate online, the Nanjing Metro responded that the woman was not fined but instead given a notice. They also assured that they will conduct thorough research and deliberation, constantly optimize working measures based on ensuring the safe and orderly operation of the subway, do a more humane job in various services and management, and provide passengers with a better experience.