Patrolling policemen, X-ray baggage inspection equipment and sniffer dogs are now commonplace at major subway stations in Beijing as the city tightens public security rules to help safeguard the upcoming Olympics.
Flammable and explosive items are banned and passenger' luggage must first be X-rayed before boarding, according to the city's municipal public security bureau.
Passengers with bottled drinks are also required to take a swig to prove they are not carrying prohibited liquids like petrol or other inflammables.
The comprehensive security inspection measures have been implemented at major subway stations like Dongzhimen, Xizhimen and Ciqikou.
They will be extended to cover all of the capital's subway lines by the end of June, including the newly built line No 10, according to reports.
"We have set up a checkpoint with police officers patrolling the station. Metro staff are cooperating with them to execute security checks," said the stationmaster of Dongdan station, who declined to give her name.
Many passengers think the new measures are understandable.
"As the Olympics approaches, security comes first. This is obviously in all of our personal interest as well," said Zhao Yunan, a white-collar worker who rides the subway to work every day.
But some doubt the effectiveness and efficiency of the new regulations.
"The complex checks will prolong the time it takes getting onto the metro, making the situation in rush hour even worse," netizen Ye Chuanlong wrote on his blog.
"(They) cannot rule out the possibility of dangerous liquids getting on board by just making the owner take a swig of water, as the attackers dare to drink them, even if they are poisonous," he added.
A security regulation issued in March banned a list of items from Olympic venues including guns, drugs, explosives, poisonous and radioactive materials, drinks, banners and oversized flags.
The regulation also requires all event organizers to provide a full emergency plan, enough security check facilities, and special security channels for people with disabilities.
