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Transport and logistics
OpinionLetters

Letters | MTR rage and rude behaviour on public transport in Hong Kong is here to stay

  • The Transport Department’s latest attempt to induce civility in commuters was well received but may not work

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Most people are likely to turn a blind eye if faced with rudeness on public transport. Photo: AFP
Letters

Actress Deanie Ip Tak-han made a video for the Transport Department recently. It highlighted the 12 types of rude behaviour common among riders of Hong Kong public transport.

Ip is an icon of the old Hong Kong spirit of decency and propriety. The video is lighthearted but inspiring. It became an instant success. It has brought to our attention the urgency and seriousness of the situation.

Frustration, provocation and bad behaviour are no longer unusual on public transport. Interaction with visitors from the mainland further complicates the situation. The sad truth is, awareness of the situation doesn’t necessarily bring solutions. I am afraid the trend is here to stay.

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Most people are timid like myself, who simply turn a blind eye if faced with such rudeness. Those who choose to voice their objections could end up in a row or even a fight with the rude passengers. Nastiness is to be expected.

In terms of morals, Hongkongers are going downhill. It looks like all we can do is to keep ourselves disciplined and warn the few around us not to misbehave.

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