Hazardous footpaths do require railings to protect pedestrians

Regarding the debate on railings on footpaths, I have lived on May Road for more than 35 years. I walk along the narrow footpaths in this area every day and often find cars parked illegally on footpaths on my road and on Old Peak Road and Brewin Path. This forces me to walk on the road and take my life in my hands.

Over the past 20 years I have often called the relevant government department asking it to send wardens to give tickets to motorists parked illegally on pedestrian footpaths.

I have also asked that in the interests of pedestrian safety strong railings should be erected. As for Old Peak Road and Brewin Path, I find the narrow steep roads and footpaths very treacherous. Railings will make pedestrians feel more secure.

Most hikers and nature lovers go for walks early in the morning or on weekends.

They don't have to deal with the weekday traffic, especially the idling buses for residential blocks and motorists parked on the footpaths taking a nap.

I am also concerned about the sickly state of greenery on slopes and road sides at Brewin Path, Clovelly Path and May Road (the Central Green Trail). Vines which are out of control are destroying the trees and greenery.

The trees should be trimmed twice a year - in the autumn and in June - to maintain their growth and keep them healthy.

For years, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department did all this trimming work annually until the Lands Department took over responsibility for the slopes.

All the signs that read: 'Government property: keep off' remained. However, the signs which said that the slopes were government property and people picking plants would be prohibited, were removed.

I urge all those who really care about Hong Kong greenery to take a close look at the state of our trees and shrubs along our hills, slopes and roadsides. They are dying a slow death and need expert supervision so they can survive and grow. The Lands Department is incapable of keeping this precious greenery alive.

Winnie Wong, Mid-Levels