City to shame traffic offenders into obeying road regulations

Traffic police in Changsha, Hunan province are going to fight jaywalkers by shaming them into obeying the rules, media reported Thursday.

According to a new program announced Wednesday, anyone caught jaywalking will have the option of standing at a busy intersection for 20 minutes while holding a traffic safety sign in lieu of paying a fine.

Those cited for riding e-bikes in non-designated lanes or carrying passengers will be sententced for 60 minutes, local police said.

However, offenders can reduce their penalty time to around 30 minutes if they admit to their mistakes, said police.

"I will never disobey a red light again," said a woman surnamed Liu after standing 20 minutes in the afternoon sun on Wednesday.

Liu explained she was caught in Yuelu district crossing the street during a red light, and added the punishment has left a lasting impression.

"Its purpose is to improve awareness among residents and this seems more effective than a fine," said Chen Li, a local resident.