Key facts
- Complaints about noise nuisance and improper/unhygienic behavior on Hong Kong public transport have more than doubled in three years.
- In 2025, 66 complaints were recorded, up from 31 in 2023.
- Noise nuisance complaints rose from 10 in 2023 to 24 in 2024.
- Improper or unhygienic behavior complaints increased from 21 in 2023 to 42 in 2024.
Complaints regarding nuisance behavior on Hong Kong's public transport have significantly increased, with authorities recording a surge in reports of passengers playing loud music and placing their feet on seats. The Transport Department and Environmental Protection Department received a total of 66 complaints in 2025 concerning noise nuisance and improper or unhygienic behavior, a substantial rise from 31 complaints in 2023. Specifically, noise nuisance complaints increased from 10 in 2023 to 24 in 2024, while complaints about improper or unhygienic behavior rose from 21 to 42 in the same period, marking an overall year-on-year increase of 50% in these categories.
Legislative Council member Hon Chong Ho-fung raised concerns about discourteous behavior on public transport, including loud audio playback from electronic devices and placing feet on seats. He questioned whether the government would consider amending legislation to explicitly designate these actions as contraventions, streamline enforcement, and increase penalties, drawing parallels with measures taken in cities like Guangzhou, Singapore, and London. Chong also proposed exploring pilot "quiet zones/compartments" and enhancing publicity campaigns.
In response, Secretary for Transport and Logistics Ms Mable Chan stated that existing legislation, such as the Mass Transit Railway By-laws and Public Bus Services Regulations, already includes provisions for regulating improper passenger conduct with corresponding penalties. She noted that franchised bus operators have "Passenger Notices" that prohibit loud audio playback and placing feet on seats, with reminders provided through on-board announcements and signage. Chan indicated that operators have guidelines to assist frontline staff in addressing passenger behavior, including劝喻 (admonishment) and follow-up actions, and escalating to enforcement departments when necessary. For MTR, staff also provide admonishments during routine checks. The government is continuing to monitor the situation and collaborate with operators to promote courteous travel and create a comfortable environment.