Hong Kong MTR track intrusion prompts calls for tougher penalties, education

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.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.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.