A massive chain-reaction collision involving six vehicles on Tseung Kwan O Road during Thursday morning’s rush hour left 11 people with minor injuries and triggered significant traffic delays toward Kwun Tong. The multi-vehicle crash, which occurred around 10:46 a.m. on the downhill stretch of the heavily trafficked artery, prompted an immediate police investigation into the cause and led to the closure of several lanes, according to authorities.
The incident near Tsui Ping South Estate involved five private passenger cars and one light goods van, resulting in a significant pileup often described colloquially as a “bumper-to-bumper” collision. Emergency services quickly descended upon the scene to manage the ensuing chaos and attend to the injured. Initial reports confirmed that 11 individuals sustained what were described as minor abrasions and injuries, requiring transport to local hospitals for treatment and evaluation.
Traffic Disruptions and Police Inquiry
Police officers spent the morning processing the scene, gathering evidence, and questioning drivers to determine precisely what precipitated the sudden, synchronous crash on the descent leading toward Kwun Tong. While the exact trigger remains under investigation, multi-vehicle collisions on downhill motorway sections are often linked to factors such as insufficient braking distance, sudden speed changes, or driver inattention.
The sheer volume of damaged vehicles necessitated the temporary sealing off of several lanes of the road heading inbound, severely restricting traffic flow. The Transport Department issued an immediate warning, advising motorists that only the remaining available lanes could be used, leading to widespread and persistent traffic congestion in the area stretching back well into the afternoon.
“Driving public transport infrastructure requires constant vigilance, especially on inclines and declines where stopping distances can be severely impacted,” noted a spokesperson for the Hong Kong Automobile Association (unaffiliated with the current incident), emphasizing standard road safety protocol. “Motorists must maintain generous distances, particularly when approaching known bottleneck areas or where speeds fluctuate significantly.”
Managing Safety on Major Motorways
The incident serves as a sharp reminder of the fragility of morning commutes in high-density areas. Authorities are continuously urging drivers to exercise caution, especially during peak hours and when navigating sections of road known for rapid changes in speed limits or topography.
For those navigating major arteries like Tseung Kwan O Road, experts suggest several proactive safety measures:
- Maintain Distance: Implement the three-second rule, significantly increasing distance in heavy traffic or adverse conditions.
- Avoid Distraction: Refrain from using mobile devices or engaging in activities that divert attention from the road.
- Anticipate Braking: Look several cars ahead, anticipating potential stops or slowdowns before they become immediate hazards.
As cleanup efforts proceeded and police continued their inquiry, officers worked with towing services to clear the wreckage, aiming to fully restore traffic capacity before the evening commute. Authorities have yet to release further details regarding potential charges or specific findings related to the cause of the significant chain-reaction event. Commuters were advised to seek alternative routes or expect substantial delays until the roadway was fully cleared and operational.
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