Hong Kong hiking tragedies: veteran climber warns hordes flocking outdoors not to ignore hazards just for that perfect selfie
- Hikers have been scaling down steep cliffside at drought-hit reservoir, scene of two mishaps
- Choose trails to match your fitness level, have proper equipment, says mountaineer Chung Kin-man
Hikers flocking to Hong Kong’s popular outdoor trails are unprepared and unaware of hazards as they venture in search of selfies, resulting in unnecessary tragedies, mountaineer Chung Kin-man has told the Post.
His warning came as a hiker died on Friday after falling into the sea at Cape D’Aguilar Marine Reserve on Hong Kong Island’s southeastern tip.
A preliminary police investigation showed that the man was taking photos when he was swept into the water by a large wave.
Another man died and a second was injured in mishaps over two consecutive days last week at Lower Shing Mun Reservoir in Tsuen Wan.
The drought-hit reservoir, which has dried into a picturesque expanse of cracked mud, has become a hotspot for hikers eager to snap selfies.
Some were seen sneaking into the area and posing for pictures even after authorities sealed off the area and banned people from entering following the recent mishaps.