MTR announces ban on electric mobility devices starting Jan 1

The MTR Corporation announced Tuesday that passengers will be barred from bringing electric mobility devices onto MTR premises starting January 1, except for electric wheelchairs used by persons with disabilities.

MTR stated that these devices are generally equipped with high-capacity lithium batteries and can be quite large, which could obstruct pathways or cause inconvenience to other passengers.

Following a comprehensive risk assessment and referencing practices of other railway systems, the company has decided to implement this measure.

The company will update its conditions of carriage of luggage and display notices at stations to inform passengers of the new regulations.

Currently, MTR bylaws, North-west Railway bylaws, and conditions of carriage of luggage prohibit the use of electric mobility devices within MTR premises.

This included electric bicycles, electric unicycles, electric scooters, electric hoverboards, electric skateboards, and electric luggage.

Persons with disabilities using electric wheelchairs are exempt from this rule.

The company stated that any passengers found to carry these devices will be issued a written warning and asked to leave the MTR premises to ensure compliance with the rules.

Staff may, if necessary, issue a notice of the intended prosecution to non-compliant passengers.

Passengers witnessing others with these devices can report the situation to MTR staff for further action.