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In the early hours of Sunday morning, a serious incident occurred in Tuen Mun, Hong Kong, involving a minibus and a light rail train. The collision, which took place around 12:43 AM, has resulted in injuries to a dozen individuals and the subsequent arrest of the 64-year-old minibus driver.
The accident unfolded on Tsing Lun Road when the minibus, en route to Lok Ma Chau, collided forcefully with the train. Initial reports indicate that the driver may have misinterpreted a traffic signal, leading to this unfortunate event.
The aftermath of the collision
The impact from the minibus was substantial enough to cause a partial derailment of the light rail train. Eyewitness accounts describe the front of the minibus as severely damaged, with its windscreen shattered. Firefighters promptly arrived on the scene and managed to extricate the driver, who was trapped inside the vehicle due to the wreckage.
He suffered leg injuries as a result of the crash.
Injuries and emergency response
In total, twelve passengers received medical attention for various injuries sustained during the collision. Emergency services acted swiftly, transporting the injured to nearby hospitals for further evaluation and treatment.
The response from local authorities highlighted the importance of immediate medical assistance in such scenarios, ensuring that those affected received timely care.
Understanding the light rail system in Hong Kong
The Light Rail Transit (LRT) system, operational in Hong Kong, is designed to serve the northwestern New Territories, specifically within the Tuen Mun and Yuen Long districts.
This transit system operates on a standard gauge track and utilizes a 750V DC overhead power supply. Before its integration into the MTR network, the LRT was part of the Kowloon-Canton Railway (KCR) network.
Historical context and development
The establishment of the LRT system dates back to the 1970s when the Hong Kong government allocated land for railway development in Tuen Mun.
After various considerations, the Kowloon-Canton Railway Corporation was ultimately chosen to construct the system, which officially opened to the public in September 1988. The initial setup consisted of several routes, connecting major public housing estates in the area.
Today, the LRT is a vital component of public transportation, facilitating the daily commutes of approximately 483,000 passengers. The system is characterized by its unique fare structure, which is distinct from traditional bus services, encouraging the use of light rail for short-distance travel.
This incident serves as a reminder of the inherent risks associated with urban transportation systems. It underscores the need for vigilant driving practices and adherence to traffic regulations to ensure the safety of all commuters.
