SCMP Editorial

Editorial | Hong Kong pedestrian zones the safest route for all

Fatal accident in nightlife area a grim reminder of why restrictions on vehicles are required in some parts of the city

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Safety on Hong Kong’s busiest streets is at issue after a traffic accident in the SoHo nightclub area left a woman dead and seven other pedestrians injured. Photo: Edmond So

SCMP Editorial

Published: 8:00am, 16 Dec 2021Updated: 8:11am, 16 Dec 2021

The safety of some of Hong Kong’s busiest streets has been called into question following a traffic accident that left a woman dead and seven other pedestrians injured. The tragedy occurred when a vehicle rolled backwards downhill and crashed into people enjoying a Friday night in a popular entertainment area.

A 44-year-old woman has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving. It is for the court to decide on any legal consequences.

But the accident has led to further calls for areas such as SoHo, where it happened, to be pedestrianised. This debate has been going on for years, but insufficient progress has been made.

The roads in SoHo are busy, narrow, and many are on steep slopes. Bars and restaurants in the area make it a magnet for those seeking entertainment, especially at night.

A police investigation into the SoHo crash indicated the driverless vehicle was rolling backwards downhill on Peel Street when it ran across Staunton Street and into pedestrians on the opposite pavement. Photo: Edmond So

They gather on crowded pavements, sometimes spilling into the street. If a vehicle crashes, the consequences are likely to be serious, and the latest accident should serve as a reminder that care must be taken by all.