At around 11:56 AM today, a tree branch approximately 6 meters in length and 5 centimeters in diameter suddenly fell from a height of about 20 meters near the bus stop in the vicinity of Shiwajiao Village's Shihe Building, in Kwun Tong. A 48-year-old woman named Wan, who was passing by, was struck on the head, resulting in severe injuries. Emergency personnel rushed to the scene and found her semi-conscious, promptly transporting her to Margaret Hospital for treatment. It is reported that the victim regained consciousness after treatment but was still in the Intensive Care Unit. The affected area was cordoned off, leaving bloodstains on the ground. The damaged tree was observed to be growing near a retaining wall, standing at least 30 meters high. Its fallen branch landed approximately 20 meters away in the bus stop area below the retaining wall. Firefighters later raised a ladder truck to cut off the remaining potentially dangerous branches, temporarily closing the Tse Wai Kow Road toward Kwun Tong.
The incident highlights the constant need for safety measures and regular maintenance of trees in urban residential areas to prevent such accidents. This event has drawn attention to the importance of timely inspections and the potential risks posed by tall trees in proximity to pedestrian paths and public areas in densely populated regions. Safety authorities are likely to conduct a thorough review of the surroundings and implement necessary protective measures to ensure public safety in the future.
Local residents expressed their shock and concern over the incident, emphasizing the need for more rigorous monitoring of tree health and maintenance in their neighborhood. This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers in urban environments and underscores the ongoing efforts required to safeguard public safety. As authorities investigate the cause of the fallen branch, they are also expected to evaluate the broader implications for tree management policies in Kwun Tong and beyond.