The government plans to boost manpower and transport capacity during peak periods, as well as enforce environmental regulations around the clock at popular camping spots. Close coordination with the travel sector and relevant organisations has also been promised to ensure smooth operations during the May 1 to 5 holiday.
Other locations have proven deadly. A visitor who slipped off a cliff and fell to his death on New Year’s Eve was reportedly taking pictures. Similar misadventures have involved Hong Kong tourists while travelling abroad. The related global challenge of overtourism has also been seen in Hong Kong. Holiday periods often draw hundreds of campers to beaches and other fragile natural sites that are inevitably left with messes to clean.
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department said it will deploy extra staff to popular campsites in Sai Kung to patrol the locations. However, monitoring is not enough. The government must accelerate the implementation of long-term structural reforms such as access fees and a formal booking system.
Balance will be essential so the city remains welcoming without sacrificing the very natural heritage that draws many visitors. If Hong Kong can rise to the challenge of enforcing standards without closing its doors, it can serve as a world-class role model of how communities can treasure their visitors and environment.