Strict new regulations in the works for online ride hailing in Nanjing could see all pets banned from vehicles and require those who cannot take care of themselves to be accompanied. The measures, if promulgated, might well then be rolled out to other cities in China.
As announced by local authorities, the “Interim Measures for the Management of Network Reserved Taxis in Nanjing” concerns itself with four key areas that have significant implications for passengers, drivers and even the vehicles themselves.
Priority for New Energy Vehicles
The Measures propose that priority be given to New Energy Vehicles during the online booking process, while further, unspecified regulations indicate monitoring as to the mileage of the electric cars used for ride hailing.
Licensing for Ride-Hailing Operating Platforms
Nanjing proposes to adopt an administrative licensing system for the management of online ride-hailing vehicles, whereby the vehicle platform, e.g. Didi, must have a platform operation permit, the vehicle a transportation permit, and the car driver a driver’s license.
Thank goodness for small mercies.
The new regulations also propose to establish an exit mechanism, whereby the operating platform business license shall be valid for 4 years; the platform may apply for renewal 3 months prior to expiration.
Violations to be Recorded in Social Credit System
The Measures also clearly stipulate that drivers will no longer be able to accept appointments when the car has already been booked; violation thereof shall carry a fine of up to ¥10,000 and the details recorded in the Social Credit System.
No Pets; Drunks and Others Need be Accompanied
In addition, the Measures propose to require that pet owners may not carry their dogs, cats or other animals in the ride-hailing vehicle, with the exception of guide dogs.
In addition, the inebriated who have lost the ability to control themselves, those living with a mental illness and others who cannot take care of themselves, should be accompanied by a caregiver.
The Measures will not be officially promulgated until public opinion has been sufficiently solicited.
While some portions of the Measures are welcome indeed, the prospect is undoubtedly very bad news for pet owners. Proponents will argue that China remains a country in which huge numbers of people take public transportation; once there is precedent, unforeseen factors and accidents may follow.
However, if implemented, the Measures remove for many pet owners their last option to take public transportation back and forth to the veterinary clinic several times a year. They would become entirely reliant on a friend with a car.
The Nanjing Transportation Bureau welcomes public comment on the proposed Measures, before 20 November, 2019, by email to njkgc@163.com.
