11th November 2024 – (Hong Kong) The MTR Corporation has unveiled an enhanced campaign aimed at encouraging passengers to “stand on both sides of the escalator” over the next month. While the corporation has opted not to pursue prosecutions under the MTR Bylaws, it is urging the public to prioritise safety by refraining from walking on escalators.

This initiative follows the launch of a campaign last Friday that promotes safe escalator usage, prompted by the report of 430 escalator-related incidents during the first nine months of the year.

Cheris Lee Yuen-ling, Chief of Operating and Metro Segment at MTR, highlighted the dangers associated with moving on escalators. She recounted a troubling incident where a passenger walking on the left side caused a child on the right to be pulled back by their mother, resulting in a fall involving the child and four other passengers.

Lee stressed the critical importance of safety, stating, “No matter how many accidents occur, even one is too many. We hope passengers will remain calm and always hold on to the handrails to enhance safety on escalators.”

In addition to its public messaging, the MTR Corporation has initiated outreach efforts, deploying personnel to schools and elderly centres to educate individuals on proper escalator etiquette.