by Charles Liu
The NanfangToday, 11:10 AM
Being a musician is a tough racket. Between expensive lessons, expensive instruments, and gigs which don’t pay very much, its a difficult way to make a living. And unless you’re successful enough to afford a car or taxi to lug your gear around, a good transportation system is essential.
Hong Kong certainly has a good transportation system, unfortunately it would appear the transportation system is not particularly good to musicians. According to a report in the Apple Daily, a Hong Kong schoolgirl was denied access to the MTR subway at Tai Wai Station because her instrument was too big.
The schoolgirl was told that her guzheng, otherwise known as the Chinese zither, was an “oversized” item and therefore prohibited on the MTR. Oversized items are classified by MTR rules as any object over 160 centimeters in total length. As a result, the schoolgirl was left with no choice but to leave the subway.
See Also: Fury In Hong Kong After MTR Train Runs Over Dog As People Tried to Save It
The schoolgirl’s plight however did not go unnoticed. Pictures of the confrontation circulated on social media, outraging some Hong Kong residents who argue that the MTR employs a double standard when it comes to enforcing its policies.
See Also: MTR Staff Member Chastised for Rebuking Urinating Child
Critics argue that MTR staff often allow other oversized items, ranging from washing machines to martial arts weapons, and yet won’t allow a student to carry her instrument. Others argue the MTR should be more concerned with stopping parallel traders from transporting bulky items rather than stopping locals going about their business.
One netizen wrote, “Double standard; the rules are not enforced fairly.” Another wrote, “Only allow paralell traders smuggling Hong Kong goods; won’t allow a schoolgirl on her way to a music lesson.” And still another said, “All I see is a case of ‘punishing the good, but avoiding the wicked’. If there is a quota they must implement everyday, then it’s the students that will most certainly get the worst part of it!”
Related:
Even Mainland Students in Hong Kong Feel Targeted Because of Parallel Trader ProblemRude Foreigner Criticized for Taking Up Seats on the MTR as Elderly Man Stands
The post No Musical Instruments, but Washing Machines Okay on Hong Kong’s MTR appeared first on The Nanfang.
https://thenanfang.com/netizens-allege-double-standard-mtrs-oversize-policy/
