High-speed rail to tighten rules on passenger conduct from Sept. 22

Taipei, Aug. 30 (CNA) Taiwan's high-speed rail will introduce new passenger conduct rules from Sept. 22, allowing staff to refuse service to travelers who sit or lie in train aisles or gangways after being asked to move, its operator announced Saturday.

The change follows past incidents, including a case last November in which a passenger sitting on the floor near a train door clashed with another traveler who stepped over him while boarding, Taiwan High Speed Rail Corp. (THSRC) said in a press release.

The updated transport contract also covers the upcoming "quiet travel" policy, under which passengers must use headphones when watching videos or listening to music and make phone calls only in the gangway areas. Those who repeatedly ignore warnings may be escorted off the train.

THSRC said the revisions clarify that disruptive behavior, such as blocking aisles, sitting on station floors, or refusing to sit in assigned seats, can result in the travel contract being canceled or terminated.

The company added that the changes were made in response to passenger feedback calling for stricter management of noise and order on trains.