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Hong Kong railway experts have called for tougher penalties and stronger public education to prevent the misuse of emergency exits on trains following a recent incident on the MTR East Rail line that caused more than two hours of disruption during evening rush hour.
The experts also cast doubt on a lawmaker’s proposal to make emergency doors less accessible, saying the move could compromise passenger safety.
A preliminary investigation found that a passenger had opened the emergency exit ramp in the rear driver’s cabin of a northbound train that was travelling from Kowloon Tong to Tai Wai station.
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The man, 35, was later found inside the tunnel near a Kowloon Tong station exit, having suffered an electric shock.
As of Saturday afternoon, he remained in critical condition at the Prince of Wales Hospital in Sha Tin.
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Legislative Council transport panel member Michael Lee Chun-keung of the Liberal Party suggested installing a protective cover – similar to those used on fire alarm call points – over emergency exit handles.
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