Diagonal pedestrian crossing opens in Sha Tin

The Transport Department of Hong Kong inaugurated a diagonal pedestrian crossing at the intersection of On Ming and On Muk streets in Sha Tin on Tuesday. This new crossing allows pedestrians to cross the road in a single motion, eliminating the need to navigate a right-angle intersection. The location, near Shek Mun MTR Station and Shek Mun Shopping Centre, aims to reduce walking distance and save commuters time, according to the department.

To accommodate the elderly, wheelchair users, and individuals with handcarts, dropped kerbs have been installed at the crossing. Additionally, traffic bollards have been placed to remind motorists to drive cautiously in the vicinity. This initiative follows the successful operation of two trial diagonal crossings, which opened in Sha Tin and Tsim Sha Tsui in 2024.

The department reported that these crossings have operated safely and smoothly, with walking distances and times reduced by around 30 percent on average compared to traditional right-angle crossings. The Transport Strategy Blueprint, released in February, outlines plans to expand diagonal crossings to 15 additional junctions. These new crossings will be implemented in stages from the second half of this year, as confirmed by the department.