Walk this way? Why Hong Kong’s MTR Corp is targeting escalator etiquette

Hong Kong’s rail giant has launched a controversial campaign to try to persuade commuters to do away with deep-rooted habits by standing still on both sides of escalators rather than leaving the left for those who wish to pass in a hurry.

The MTR Corporation cited safety concerns when it unveiled the initiative on Friday, after 430 accidents involving station escalators were logged in the first nine months of the year.

But the attempt to change common practice has sparked heated discussion, with many rejecting the suggestion to patiently wait on escalators and saying it is at odds with the city’s fast-paced environment.

The Post steps into the debate and looks at the local reaction as well as similar efforts in other cities.

1. What is the safety campaign about?

People commonly stand on the right side of escalators in Hong Kong to leave the left clear for others to walk past.