Martin Li, Shan Shan

    martin.mouse@163.com

    SHENZHEN plans to impose a time limit on residents’ morning and evening dancing at parks, according to the draft regulations from the landscaping and park department, which have been released by the city’s legislature in order to invite public opinions.

    Square dancing, better known as guangchangwu, is a popular form of daily exercises by senior Chinese. It is considered a source of disturbing noise by many.

    Morning and evening dancing at parks would be only allowed between 7 and 9 a.m., and between 7 and 9 p.m., according to the draft regulations.

    In addition, related government departments will set a park noise control standard. People would be punished by police if their activities or equipment generate noises above the standard level.

    “It’s necessary to prevent dancers from disturbing others’ daily lives,” an old man, Zhang, told Shenzhen Daily on Thursday.

    “I think the regulations will work to some extent,” added Zhang.

    Another man, Wang, aged 69, also said he supports the regulations.

    (Continued on P3)

    Wang said sports and exercises are helpful to improve people’s health, but square dancing is a “bad form or style”.

    “I don’t like it (square dancing)… a group of people intends to show themselves off and attract attention,” said Wang.

    Wang’s wife, Li, said she seldom does square dancing with others in public.

    “I prefer to going to fitness center in my community. I think restrictions on square dancing is conducive for local residents,” said Li.

    The draft regulations also drew discussion on social media.

    “Many square dancers making disturbing loud noises always dance in open spaces surrounding residential communities, instead of parks. How can these people be restricted?” a person who uses teh name Fififly said on Weibo.

    Another person, Yijin Taiyan, posted that what matters most is who will be tasked to supervise people who turn a blind eye to the limit.

    Besides limiting the daily exercise, the draft regulations also require free access to municipal parks across the city. Municipal parks would be asked to stay open no less than 16 hours a day.