中国人遵守了20年的文明行为，居然是错的

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the ongoing debate surrounding the "stand on the right, walk on the left" etiquette on escalators in China, highlighting its historical context, current safety concerns, and the shift in public opinion against this practice. Historical Context - The "stand on the right, walk on the left" practice was promoted in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai over 20 years ago, gaining traction during events like the Beijing Olympics and Shanghai Expo [7][8]. - Initially, many people stood side by side on escalators, but the practice evolved into a more structured approach due to campaigns aimed at promoting civility [9]. Public Sentiment - Many commuters support the "left walk" rule primarily for time-saving reasons, as it allows those in a hurry to pass [9]. - The cultural perception of this practice as a sign of personal quality and civility has also contributed to its popularity [10]. Safety Concerns - Critics argue that walking on escalators is dangerous, increasing the risk of falls and accidents [11]. - A study from London indicates that as escalator height increases, fewer people are willing to walk, suggesting that standing on both sides may enhance efficiency [18]. - The article emphasizes that escalators are designed as machines, not for walking, and walking on them can lead to injuries due to their design differences compared to regular stairs [19][21]. Equipment Maintenance Issues - Prolonged adherence to the "left walk" practice can lead to mechanical issues with escalators, as uneven weight distribution may cause wear and tear [24]. - Reports indicate that a significant percentage of accidents in metro systems are related to escalators, underscoring the need for safer practices [28][30]. Shift in Official Stance - Several cities in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, have begun to discourage the "left walk" practice, citing safety and equipment maintenance concerns [32][33]. - Official guidelines now recommend standing still and holding onto handrails instead of walking on escalators [34]. Conclusion - Despite the push for change, ingrained habits are difficult to alter, and many commuters still prioritize speed over safety in their daily routines [35].