MTR Rolls Out New, Shorter Trains On East Rail Line

The MTR's new nine-carriage trains on the East Rail Line began running on Saturday, as enthusiasts celebrated their introduction.

The first train departed from Shatin station at 5:40 am and went to Hung Hom.

The newly introduced train was welcomed with mixed feelings.

A rail enthusiast told RTHK that he was very excited about riding the new train.

"I woke up at around 2:45 in the morning, got on a taxi at three to reach the station. And I have been waiting for an hour and a half - just to get on the first train."

"The interior of the carriage is brighter than the old one," said the passenger.

Some passengers said the new ones are more comfortable, while others said the old 12-carriage trains have been running since their childhood days and have become part of their collective memories.

There were commuters complaining that they only knew about the new arrangement from the news in the morning, saying there should have been more staff to give clearer directions.

The MTR said they have arranged an extra 300 staff at different stations to help educate the public about the new, shorter trains.

The corporation said to begin with there will be six new trains serving the public each day.

The usual 12-carriage trains will still operate - but mainly during rush hours.