TAIPEI (Taiwan News) – The ban on eating and drinking inside Taipei Mass Rapid Transit stations and trains also covers water, with fines of up to NT$7,500 (US$240) for offenders, Taipei Rapid Transit Corporation said Friday.

The company said the ban was valid for all age groups, including elderly passengers and children, per CNA. The only exceptions are for people who are feeling unwell or breastfeeding mothers.

The reminder came after a netizen questioned whether drinking water on the MRT was such a serious offense. They had heard a station broadcast calling for intervention by a security guard after a passenger was seen drinking water.

Their post received mixed reactions, with one group applauding the strict implementation of rules, and the other describing the drinking of water as a natural need that should not be punished.

The company confirmed the incident, but said the security guard had been alerted according to standard operating procedures after a passenger had hit the intercom button. Station staff used the broadcasting system to explain the reason for the guard’s appearance and allay passenger fears about the incident.

If they notice an offense, MRT travelers can contact the driver through the intercom or use the Taipei MRT Go app. Fines for eating or drinking inside the network range from NT$1,500 to NT$7,500.