Taiwan's transport official defends HSR's quiet carriage policy

Taipei, Oct. 12 (CNA) A senior transport official on Saturday defended Taiwan High Speed Rail's (THSR) newly implemented "quiet carriage" policy, after it was criticized for targeting families with children.

The policy, effective Sept. 22, targets disruptive behavior rather than children, focusing on passengers making phone calls or using electronic devices without headphones, Ministry of Transportation and Communications General Secretary Shen Hui-hung (沈慧虹) said in a Facebook post.

"Infants, young children, and passengers with medical conditions affecting autonomy will continue to receive care and understanding from staff," Shen added.

Her remarks came amid public debate over the policy, which has drawn criticism after being perceived as unfriendly towards families.

One social media post recounted an incident in which a mother traveling with two young children was shown a sign by staff asking her to lower the children's voices. She reluctantly took her younger child to the carriage doorway, leaving the older child in the seat.

Shen noted that on her recent ride on an HSR train, children's voices were not disruptive and passengers with pets were accommodated without issue.

"The intent is clear: mutual respect," she said, stressing that the policy addresses behaviors adults can control rather than unavoidable noises from infants or passengers with medical needs.

Promotional materials, including illustrated cards and guides, have been distributed to help passengers understand the rules, Shen added.