(Yicai Global) Sept. 11 -- Chinese authorities have outlawed online carpooling services nationwide after the death of two passengers using Didi Chuxing, and will not allow ride-sharing apps to operate again until the companies behind them fall in line with regulations.

Ride-sharing providers need to self-inspect their safety policies and stop providing carpooling services until they have fixed all problems, the ministries of transport and public security said in a document published by the former on social media yesterday.

Didi already shut down its late night (11 p.m. to 5 a.m.) ride-hailing and carpooling services for one week starting Sept. 8, after coming into the spotlight when a second passenger was raped and murdered by a driver in the space of three months. The Beijing-based firm also now records audio of rides to put passengers at ease.

Chinese regulators have stepped up their game since the most recent Didi killing and 10 authorities have sent officials into the company's headquarters as part of a sweeping probe that will investigate all ride-hailing providers and the supervisory bodies that have been governing them.

Under the rules published yesterday, providers will need to employ a popup warning in apps that reminds passengers to call 110 (emergency services) if they lives or property are in danger, according to the document. They must also install a 'call police' button that drivers and riders can use in case of an emergency to immediately dial for help.

Platforms are also expected to provide the police with information on drivers, their vehicle registration and location, routes and passengers in real time; and must conduct compulsory background checks on drivers planning to drive carpools.

Previously, platforms had been less stringer on requirements for carpool chauffeurs than those driving for its other services. The providers will be expected to dismiss drivers and vehicles that do not fall in line by the end of this year.

Editor: James Boynton