Hong Kong Advances Pedestrian Accessibility with New Audible Traffic Signals

Hong Kong’s Transport Department has upgraded more than 800 pedestrian crossings—40% of the city—with a new generation of electronic audible traffic signals (eATS). The devices add voice messages that read street names in Cantonese, Putonghua and English, a tactile map for road layout, and a lower‑volume setting for nighttime use. To support those who need louder alerts after dark, 15,000 remote controls are being distributed; a single‑press boost or a 20‑minute loop can raise the volume. The upgrades were co‑designed with visually impaired users, including Mr Lee Kai‑tak, who helped shape the features. The department aims to replace about 2,000 junctions by late 2027, prioritising high‑traffic areas for the visually impaired.