'Do not rush to stations,' MTR urges, cites lengthy repairs to storm-damaged rail lines

The MTR Corporation warned on Wednesday that extensive repairs are needed across its network following Typhoon Ragasa, urging the public not to rush to stations as services on exposed outdoor sections remain suspended indefinitely.

The rail operator reported numerous incidents of fallen trees on tracks and damage to overhead cables along several lines, including the East Rail Line and light rail routes, following the passage of the powerful storm.

A large tree was confirmed to have collapsed near Prime View Stop and Tai Hing (South) Stop on the Light Rail system, damaging critical railway infrastructure.

Cheris Lee Yuen-ling, Chief of Operating & Metro Segment of the railway firm, said while the typhoon signal has been lowered to No. 8, the full extent of the damage is still unknown and requires on-site inspection.

She cautioned that lines with long exposed sections, including the East Rail Line, Tuen Ma Line, Airport Express, Tung Chung Line, and Light Rail, are expected to need "a considerable amount of time" for inspection and repair before services can safely resume.

The corporation has pre-positioned over 20 engineering trains and crews across various lines, ready to begin work as soon as weather conditions permit. The engineering teams will focus on clearing debris and repairing damaged sections to ensure safety before any gradual restoration of services can begin, said Lee.

For the time being, the MTR is only operating limited services on the underground, tunnel sections of its lines. All outdoor sections remain closed, and many stations serving these areas are temporarily shuttered.

The public is strongly advised to check the latest service updates via the MTR Mobile app, the company's official website, or its social media channels before considering any travel. Citizens should also avoid unnecessary journeys.

(Marco Lam)