Talking points: Is the Hong Kong MTR smart to tell people not to walk on the escalator?
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Snehaa Senthamilselvan Easwari, 14,South Island School
The main reason the MTR recommends you stand still is for your own safety. Living in a tech-savvy society like Hong Kong, many people are glued to their phones or other electronic devices even when they're on the escalator. Hence, it's best that everyone stands still, so that there are no unnecessary accidents. It's better than people walking up or down escalators with eyes on their smartphones and earphones plugged in. Regardless of the circumstances, we should always put safety first!
Belinda Ng, 15, South Island School
Personally, I have no objection to anyone standing on the escalators. The only problem is when they stand directly in the middle, blocking the way of everyone else behind them. So we should stand on one side, allowing others to walk up or down the escalator.
Joy Pamnani, 16, PLK Ngan Po Ling College
As fast-paced and hectic as our city life may be, I agree with the MTR's policy telling people to stand still on the escalator.
First of all, it's important to note that some MTR stations don't have lifts, so people with suitcases or prams may find it difficult to walk up the escalator.
Besides, not everyone in the MTR is in a rush, and some people may not be able to walk up every escalator in the station, especially the really long ones. While some may argue that standing still is a waste of time, I think it actually saves time. Different people have different walking speeds, and it takes a lot of time to adjust if everybody's moving left and right all over the place.
Hongkongers should take a moment to appreciate the chance to stand still and catch their breath in one of the world's busiest underground networks.
Natasha Lau, 18, University of Cardiff, Britain
I don't think it is a good idea to tell everyone to stand still on the escalators because it slows down people who are in a rush. Escalators should be divided between people who are in a rush and those who want to stand still. This way, each person can make their own decision.
Nitika Chandiramani, 15, King George V School
A huge number of Hongkongers use the MTR because it's fast, and cheaper than other types of transport. Running late? Forget Uber, take the MTR! So if everyone's in a hurry, what's the use of telling them to stand still on the escalator? If they do that the MTR will be empty the next day.
People need to get to a place quickly. It's not like people are getting seriously injured by walking on escalators. In my opinion, telling people to stand still on the escalator is a waste of everyone's time.
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