Recently, various methods to regulate electric bicycles on the road have emerged in cities like Shanghai, leading to widespread complaints from the public. Observers believe that local finances are tight, and fines have become a means of expropriating the people.
In a recent feedback from Shanghai, a netizen reported being fined 50 yuan for overspeeding on an electric bike, saying, “I had only heard before that not wearing a helmet or riding against traffic could be caught by cameras, but now even overspeeding is fined.”
Another netizen mentioned getting fined 30 yuan for not wearing a helmet while riding an electric bike late at night in a less crowded area. The person noted, “Several police officers at an intersection, even hiding behind trees.” “She Mountain (town) checks every morning, Jiuting (town) checks for helmets.”
Another Shanghai netizen expressed, “Last Thursday and Friday, there were many police officers near my home intersection, checking from morning till night, not sure what the operation was about.”
Online, netizens criticized the strict summer crackdown by Nanjing traffic police, pointing out penalties for various offenses related to electric bicycles. These include covering license plates leading to points deduction, getting fined for a stuffed toy blocking the plate, not wearing a helmet resulting in an immediate fine, as well as regulations against using a phone while riding, running red lights, riding against traffic, using motor lanes, and unauthorized modifications to electric bikes, with fines imposed if caught.
In August, creators in the automotive field, such as “Electric Vehicle Knowledge,” announced that starting on September 1st, electric bikes on the roads must adhere to the “one check, two bans, three fines required” policy. Violations could lead to fines ranging from 30 to 50 yuan, with severe cases facing vehicle impoundment. The policy includes strict checks on illegal parking, improper charging of electric vehicles; banning unlicensed and outdated models, and penalties for unsafe driving practices like carrying passengers or goods.
Some netizens questioned the ban on carrying passengers on electric bikes, seeking legal justification and criticizing the excessive fines imposed. They expressed frustrations like encountering traffic police tactics and feeling targeted and fined unfairly.
In a recent incident shared by a Shenzhen netizen, they were fined for drunk riding. After consuming alcohol while out for barbecue on their electric bike, they were fined 500 yuan for drunk driving shortly after an initial fine for another violation.
A Dongguan netizen mentioned police operations capturing people in the early hours, particularly targeting drunk riders, leading to fines and inconvenience. Similarly, a Zhuhai netizen mentioned a fine of 2,000 yuan for riding an electric bike, raising concerns about the impact on their driver’s license.
In addition, a rights activist from Shuitou Town, Nanan City, Fujian Province, reported an incident where police seized an electric bike without following proper procedures, reflecting a lack of transparency and accountability in enforcement.
Electric bicycles serve as essential transportation for many ordinary people, and their confiscation causes significant inconvenience. Previously, there were no requirements for registration or licenses for electric bikes, similar to bicycles.
Critics argue that police arbitrarily impound bikes and levy hefty fines to generate revenue in the absence of adequate local government funds. They describe increased surveillance and enforcement by police, leading to a difficult situation for the public and disruptions in their daily lives.
Amid economic challenges, widespread dissatisfaction with oppressive measures, and financial constraints faced by local authorities, the public is increasingly wary of excessive enforcement actions and monetary penalties. The situation reflects a broader issue of governance and accountability in law enforcement practices.
The evolving dynamics between law enforcement agencies and the public underscore the need for transparent, fair, and just enforcement measures that prioritize safety while respecting individual rights. Efforts to address underlying issues of governance, resource allocation, and citizen engagement are essential to fostering a harmonious and equitable society.