HK to expand diagonal crossing scheme after positive results

Hong Kong's Transport Department is actively evaluating the feasibility of implementing more diagonal pedestrian crossings at intersections across the city, with assessments expected to be completed in the second half of this year.

The announcement comes as two trial sites - at the junction of Sha Kok Street and Yat Tai Street in Sha Tin, and the intersection of Carnarvon Road and Granville Road in Tsim Sha Tsui - have shown positive results since their implementation.

In a written response to lawmakers' inquiries, Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan confirmed the department will select a new batch of suitable junctions for the diagonal crossing system.

Following the completion of evaluations later this year, officials will examine site-specific conditions before gradually planning and implementing the necessary engineering works.

However, the government expressed reservations about installing a diagonal crossing at the junction of Tong Chun Street and Po Yap Road in Tseung Kwan O, citing the location's particularly long diagonal distance and heavy traffic flow.

Authorities noted that implementing such a crossing there would require significant adjustments to traffic light operations, potentially causing disruptions to the surrounding road network.

The diagonal crossing system, which allows pedestrians to cross intersections diagonally when all vehicle traffic is stopped, has been adopted in several global cities to improve pedestrian safety and traffic efficiency.

Hong Kong's expansion of the program reflects ongoing efforts to enhance walkability in the densely populated urban environment while balancing the needs of both pedestrians and motorists.

(Marco Lam and Katrina Tong)