Transport chief resists fines for transit rudeness, cites existing rules
Hong Kong's transport chief Mable Chan declined to back fines for public transport nuisances, citing existing rules and enforcement. Complaints rose 50 per cent last year to 66, including noise and unhygienic behaviour. Chan pointed to current penalties and education campaigns instead of following S
Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan has stopped short of backing fines for public transport nuisances, pointing instead to existing rules and enforcement measures. Responding to a lawmaker's question, Chan highlighted current provisions against improper passenger conduct across different modes of transport.
Lawmaker Chong Ho-fung had asked about a rise in complaints over discourteous behaviour, such as playing videos loudly or putting feet on seats. According to Chan, the Transport Department and Environmental Protection Department received 66 complaints last year, up 50 per cent from a year earlier. The cases included 24 involving noise and 42 involving improper or unhygienic behaviour, compared with 11 and 33 respectively in the previous year.
Asked whether Hong Kong would follow Singapore's September move to impose fines of up to S$500 (about HK$3,000) for uncivil behaviour on public transport, Chan did not respond directly. Instead, she noted existing legislation already contains penalties for improper passenger conduct across different transport modes.
On franchised buses, passenger notices prohibit playing electronic devices loudly or putting feet on seats, Chan said. Frontline staff follow guidelines when dealing with inappropriate behaviour, including issuing reminders and taking follow-up action, with cases referred to law enforcement agencies where necessary.
Chan added that MTR staff issue reminders and take follow-up action during routine inspections when passengers breach regulations. The Transport Department has also been working with operators on publicity and education campaigns promoting passenger safety, consideration for others and respect for fellow travellers.
On the possibility of pilot 'quiet zones' or 'quiet carriages', Chan said operators would need to consider factors including their operating models, carriage space and design, as well as the impact on overall passenger capacity. She said the government would continue to monitor passenger behaviour and work with operators to promote good public transport etiquette and a comfortable travel environment.
