Vague local rules on dirty cars unfeasible

DRIVERS IN NANJING, capital city of East China's Jiangsu province, may face a fine of 2,000 yuan ($313) if their cars are dirty or covered by disturbing advertisements, according to revised local regulations on the city environment. Exceptions will be made for rain or snow, the draft says. China Youth Daily questions the authority and feasibility of such rules, which should be made on the basis of extensive public opinions and discussions, not the whims of a few officials.

Putting aside for the moment, whether the Nanjing municipal government is allowed to impose a fine on owners if their cars are dirty, it is also worth noting that the vaguely defined "city environment" hardly serves as solid ground for imposing punishments.

Admittedly, no one should seek to challenge the dignity of the law for whatever purpose. But the fact is, there is always something that cannot be dealt with simply going by the book, and the authority of a law might be affected if there is too much room for interpretation in the first place.