Ambulance Collapses Floor at Sai Ying Pun Waterfront Park, Government Says Pedestrian Zone Was Not Emergency Route
HK01 · 2 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
An ambulance (vehicle A182) collapsed a pedestrian walkway at Sai Ying Pun Waterfront Park on October 18 evening when its rear wheel sank through the elevated floor surface. The ambulance was responding to a call about an injured child but mistakenly entered a pedestrian-designated zone rather than the official emergency vehicle route. No injuries resulted from the incident, though the ambulance itself required towing. The Development Bureau and Leisure and Cultural Services Department confirmed the affected area was not part of the designated emergency access and has since been cordoned off for repairs.
Key Points
- The incident occurred on the evening of October 18 when a child sustained a foot injury within Sai Ying Pun Waterfront Park
- Ambulance A182 entered a pedestrian walkway, causing the rear wheel to collapse through the elevated floor
- The park opened in late last year, spans approximately 1.32 hectares, and connects Zhongshan Memorial Park with the Western Wholesale Food Market promenade
- A designated emergency vehicle access exists on nearby Eastern Street North with permanent signage
- The park was designed for pedestrian use with construction standards not intended to bear vehicle weight
- Fire Services Department dispatched a replacement ambulance to transport the child to hospital
- The damaged section has been cordoned off, with the Architectural Services Department contacted for repairs
Why It Matters
The incident highlights potential coordination gaps between park management and emergency responders, prompting authorities to review staff training and consider measures to prevent emergency vehicles from entering pedestrian zones. As Hong Kong continues expanding its harbourfront promenade network, the government must balance accessibility with safety by ensuring clear demarcation between pedestrian areas and emergency access routes .
The incident highlights potential coordination gaps between park management and emergency responders, prompting authorities to review staff training and consider measures to prevent emergency vehicles from entering pedestrian zones. As Hong Kong continues expanding its harbourfront promenade network, the government must balance accessibility with safety by ensuring clear demarcation between pedestrian areas and emergency access routes .