Hong Kong’s MTR Corp won’t use by-laws to force commuters to stand still on escalators

Rail giant prefers education to change people’s behaviour and also plans to reduce speed of escalators

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The MTR Corp’s safety ambassadors occupy both sides of the escalator in efforts to discourage commuters from walking on them. Photo: Facebook

Published: 1:08pm, 11 Nov 2024Updated: 10:36pm, 11 Nov 2024

Hong Kong’s rail giant has said it will not resort to its by-laws to compel commuters to stand still on escalators, rather than leave a path open for those who wish to pass in a hurry on the left.

The MTR Corporation launched a campaign last week to persuade commuters to refrain from walking on escalators, but the move triggered fierce debate online, with some questioning the efficiency and practicality of the initiative.

Cheris Lee Yuen-ling, the company’s chief of operating and metro segment, was asked on a radio programme on Monday whether the company would use its by-laws to handle “serious” situations of non-compliance.

“We hope that through continuous promotion and education efforts, passengers will gradually change their habits,” she said, ruling out the use of legal means to compel or penalise behaviour.

According to the MTR Corp’s by-laws, no one should “ascend or descend, or attempt to ascend or descend, by means of any escalator other than in such manner and order as is directed by the corporation”.

Any improper use of MTR escalators can result in a maximum fine of HK$5,000 (US$643) and six months in jail.