Safety first for new MTR line

The MTR held a practice drill yesterday to test its system for dealing with an emergency on the new cross-harbor extension of the East Rail Line.

The drill, involving MTR staff and emergency services personnel, was a preparation for opening the passenger service in June-July.

The exercise simulated a scenario in which smoke was emitting from a passenger's luggage in a train running from Hung Hom Station to the new Exhibition Centre Station. The train was immobilized in the tunnel between the two stations.

Emergency procedures were activated with "passengers" guided to Exhibition Station.

"Injured passengers" were rescued and taken for treatment.

Representatives of the MTR, Fire Services Department and the Hong Kong Police took part in the exercise, and the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, Transport Department and Highways Department watched the exercise.

With the extension, the century-old East Rail Line will become Hong Kong's fourth cross-harbor railway line extending the line from Hung Hom Station to Admiralty Station via the new Exhibition Centre Station.