21 Sep 2019 | 03:11 AM UTC
Hong Kong: MTR closures ahead of protests September 21 /update 96
MTR announces station closures ahead of protests on September 21; heightened security presence and associated disruptions expected
Event
The Mass Transit Railway (MTR) network is expected to close Tuen Mun MTR station at 13:00 on Saturday, September 21, ahead of a march planned in the area at 15:00. Participants are due to gather at San Wo Lane and then proceed to the Tuen Mun government offices. MTR officials are also expected to close Yuen Long MTR station at 15:00 ahead of a sit-in that is due to take place from 19:00 to 23:00 at the station, to remember the violent attacks that took place there on July 21. Protesters are also planning another stress test at Hong Kong International Airport (KHG) that is scheduled to begin at 13:00.
On Sunday, September 22, a human chain will be held from 08:45 to 19:30 at Ma Tau Wai Road playground in To Kwa Wan.
Hong Kong police officials stated on Friday, September 20, that police may use live ammunition during protests in the coming round of protests amid escalation of violence.
Additional demonstrations are to be expected in Hong Kong over the coming days and weeks. A heightened security presence is likely across Hong Kong until the situation fully stabilizes. Severe transportation and business disruptions are to be expected during periods of protest activity.
Context
On September 4, Chief Executive Carrie Lam announced the withdrawal of a controversial extradition bill, which would have allowed authorities in Hong Kong to extradite fugitives wanted in mainland China and other territories. The bill sparked mass protests up to 2 million people throughout Hong Kong since June 9. However, protest actions have continued since the government's announcement, as protesters' demands evolved into a wider pro-democracy movement, calling for government reforms and police accountability over violence.
Demonstrations have spread from Hong Kong Island to Kowloon and the New Territories in recent weeks and have also become increasingly violent. Activists have also accused the police of using unnecessary force in their attempts to disperse protesters.
Advice
Individuals in Hong Kong are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests and demonstrations, prepare for associated disruptions to transportation and business, allow additional time to reach HKG, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.
