Govt Headquarters Shut As Traffic Is Paralysed

The government has announced that all entrances to its headquarters in Tamar have been closed.

This came after roads leading to the central government offices were blocked.

Police implemented special traffic arrangements as protesters laid a virtual siege around the area.

Shortly before 10.30am the government told employees not to go to the offices in Tamar, and said those already there should stay put until further notice.

But many ignored the advice and decided to leave.

Many private offices and businesses in the area were also shut due to the protests.

A secondary school in Mid-levels, meanwhile, postponed two examinations and asked students who were to take part to stay at home.

A growing crowd of protesters – who are demanding the government withdraw the controversial extradition bill – and a heavy police presence in Admiralty have paralysed traffic in the area, with more than 60 bus routes having to be diverted, skipping stops in Admiralty.

Many commuters had to get off buses in Wan Chai and walk towards Central.

Earlier in the morning, MTR trains skipped Admiralty station briefly at the request of police.

The Labour Department has called on private companies to be considerate and flexible if any of their staff members cannot arrive at work in time because of the traffic condition in Admiralty, Central and Wan Chai.

The Education Bureau also issued a statement calling on schools to “exercise flexibility” if any students are late or absent. The bureau also urges students to stay safe and “stay away from potentially dangerous places and not to take part in unlawful activities”.

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