New devices to shed 'red' light on phone-occupied pedestrians

A new device that projects red light on the ground will be installed at four junctions throughout the city in hope of reminding pedestrians occupied with their smartphones not to cross the road when they shouldn't. 

The six-month trial starts in July and the device will only project red light on the ground when the “red man” symbol is lit. 

One of the devices has been installed at the junction between Percival Street and Foo Ming Street. 

Three other devices are still being installed at Tsuen Wan Market Street (near Yan Chai Hospital); Sha Tin Centre Street (near Sha Tin Central Bus Terminus); and between Waterloo Road and Hereford Road. 

The device projects red light onto the waiting area of footpaths when the “red man” symbol is lit, and the red light reflected from the ground or mobile device can serve to remind pedestrians not to cross to road, according to the Transport Department. 

The department said it will review the effectiveness of the device and consider the way forward upon completion of the trial. 

It also reminded citizens to be attentive, heed road conditions, and obey traffic regulations when crossing the roads.