Major roads in Sheung Shui were severely gridlocked on Thursday night following traffic accidents, leading to hours of paralysis and forcing some passengers to abandon vehicles and walk.
The congestion began around 7pm, with key thoroughfares grinding to a halt. The Kai Leng Roundabout and Tai Tau Leng Roundabout were particularly affected, with traffic jams extending into the town centre. Conditions did not start easing until after 10pm.
Trapped drivers described scenes of immobility. One social media user stated they boarded a minibus at 7pm and were still unable to leave central Sheung Shui by 7.45pm. Another reported being stuck on a minibus for 45 minutes just trying to exit the area.
With traffic at a standstill on highways and roundabouts, some frustrated passengers opted to get out and walk. "Everyone was very agitated. People had no choice but to get off on the highway and at Kai Leng Roundabout," an online comment read.
Police confirmed two separate traffic accidents occurred on Po Shek Wu Road at around 7pm and 8pm, involving private cars, a minibus, and a light goods vehicle. No injuries were reported, but the incidents blocked lanes.
The Transport Department earlier issued a notice stating traffic was heavy across multiple Sheung Shui roads due to the accidents, including the areas around Tai Tau Leng Roundabout, Kai Leng Roundabout, and several other key routes.
