New app lets Metro users report crimes

Metro users will soon be able to report crimes and service problems on the network via a smartphone application, its operator said yesterday.

The "Metro Safety" app, which is available from Monday, is designed to make commuters the eyes and ears of the underground network, Shanghai Shentong Group said.

Throughout December, 1,500 people who download the program will be selected to take part in a trial of the new service. Anyone else who downloads it will have to wait until next year to get involved, it said.

Once a user spots a crime, misdemeanor or problem with the Metro service, they can send details of it via the app, which will then alert the nearest official or police officer.

Anyone who uses the app will also be given "snooper points," which they can later exchange for goods and services, the company said.

The monthlong trial will be held on Metro Line 13.

The application will be available to download from Monday at the Android and Apple stores, and Shanghai Metro's official site, shmetro.com.