Despite HK$799m spend on upgrades, Peak Tram halts ops due to signal issues

The Peak Tram has halted operation due to signalling issues six days after it resumed its services on 27 August 2022.  According to an emergency notice of The Peak Tramways released on 1 September, the Peak Tram service was suspended due to signalling issues, the company would start the maintenance work. The services resumed at noon yesterday, but the company said it could offer refund or postponement for visitors who bought tickets.

Social listening firm CARMA saw a total of 34.6% negative mentions concerning the temporary suspension of the Peak Tram service. Its general manager Charles Cheung said most negative mentions came from netizens who questioned the reliability of the new generation Peak Tram as it has only been operating for six days, while some wondering if the HK$800 million project was well-spent.

"Several netizens also expressed disappointment on the Peak Tram’s official Facebook page. In particular, some criticised the company for its poor arrangement. We also saw a number of comments related to the refund process," Cheung added. 

Previously, Peak Tramways has completed a significant upgrade project at a cost of HK$799 million to provide a more enjoyable, efficient and comfortable experience for consumers. The project included brand new tramcars, the replacement of all haulage, control and signalling systems, new ropes and track ralls, and the refurbishment of its Central and Peak Termini to facilitate the beautiful new, larger capacity tramcars.

The Central Terminus has been extended to provide covered, temperature-controlled arrival and waiting areas for up to 1300 people. Platforms and tramcar floor levels have been aligned to provide enhanced step-free access for people with disabilities.

In addition to reducing passenger waiting times by over 70%, visitors will be greeted by a dynamic, engaging and brand-new entertainment experience. The new experience introduces five engaging zones including Eye of Infinity, The Beating Heart, An Icon is Born, Once Upon a Tram and Go Wild at the Peak at the Central Terminus. A new and informative audio-visual display at the terminus has also been created.

Eye of Infinity was created by Lindy Lee, an Australian artist of Chinese ancestry. The 10-metre-tall sculpture is installed at the Peak Tram Central Terminus and is inspired by Hong Kong’s sprit of ascension, and features a constantly evolving lighting display.

Martyn Sawyer, group director of properties at the Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels (HSH), said: “We are incredibly excited to launch the sixth generation Peak Tram, marking a significant milestone in the history of this much loved icon which has served Hong Kong residents and visitors since 1888. The Peak Tram has always been a must-see attraction and with this upgrade project, we believe we have taken it to the next level and it can take its place among the world’s best visitor experiences.”

May Tsang, general manager of the Peak Complex, said: “We are looking forward to welcoming Hong Kong residents and visitors to experience our beautiful new Peak Tram, the spectacular audio-visual experience in the Central Terminus, and our stunning new sculpture ‘Eye of Infinity’ by Australian artist Lindy Lee, as well as The Peak Tower and Sky Terrace 428.”

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