Beijing has officially begun to impose a 10-yuan ($1.62) fine on jaywalkers, from Monday, which has triggered a heated debate but can the measure be justified, asks an article in Guangzhou Daily, excerpts below.

Many people question the validity of the fines, but the fact is Chinese traffic regulations clearly stipulate that pedestrians who violate traffic rules should face fines of 5 to 50 yuan. What remains questionable is the sustainability of the measure. China has criminalized drunken driving since 2011 and should demonstrate the same determination to curb jaywalking. It is necessary to extend the ongoing crackdown on a national scale. And fines must be seen to be fairly imposed. Signaling out a few jaywalkers rather than a throng is not feasible.

And if the campaign is not working initially stiffer penalties, like those imposed in other countries, should be considered.