29th July 2019 – (Hong Kong) On 26th and 27th July respectively, at least 473 train drivers from 5 MTR lines including 77 MTR Tseung Kwan O line train drivers have jointly signed several petitions to request the MTR management to respond to their three demands in order to restore their confidence when carrying out their duties. Failing which, the train drivers would escalate their next course of action.

Following their fellow MTR train drivers’ footsteps, 125 MTR Light Rail train drivers have also signed a joint petition to show solidarity with train drivers and staff of West Rail Line on 27th July. The list of drivers who have signed is still expanding at press time.

In the wake of the bloodshed incident at MTR West Rail Line Yuen Long Station, the spirit of the West Rail line’s entire staff has been affected. MTR Light Rail train drivers hoped that the management and Central Control Centre would make the appropriate arrangements during emergency to safeguard the lives of passengers and front line staff.

1) MTR management should issue a press statement to openly admit that the Central Control Centre failed to handle the crisis on 21st July and the blame should not be put solely on the train driver.

2) The management should seek clarification from the police force as to why they were slow in responding to the critical situation at Yuen Long MTR Station on 21st July.

3) Management should discuss with front line staff the safety measures after the Yuen Long incident to restore their confidence.

Joint petition signed by MTR Light Rail Line train drivers