How Hong Kong buses are spoiling the ride for the elderly

I wish to express my bewilderment at the indiscriminate advertising on the outside of buses, covering the windows and obstructing the view of passengers. Is this due to unclear regulations or inconsistent policy enforcement?

As an infirm elderly citizen and a frequent commuter on concessionary fares, I am sick and tired of KMB’s flourishing advertising business. The bus company cares little for the comfort and rights of passengers, especially those on the lower deck occupying the priority seats on the right side.

Those sitting there could feel faint or sick as a result of being confined in a space with a restricted view. The advertising stickers deprive us of enjoying the sights and recognising where the bus is on the route. Also, if we could look outside clearly, we could react quickly in case of any emergency, such as an accident.

How about priority seats for the elderly at Stanley bus stop?

These days we rarely see private cars with tinted windows, leave alone public transport vehicles. The only exemptions are the Correctional Services Department and police cars, which have a special role to perform. The windows on public light buses and taxis in Hong Kong are also left clear.

Why are buses allowed to sport these stickers on their windows when other public vehicles do not appear to be? If this involves rule violation of any kind, when will suitable action be taken?

Shum Hawk Ming, Tsuen Wan