Advertisement
Hong Kong hiking
Opinion
SCMP Editorial
SCMP Editorial

Editorial | Upgrade will make rescue app a must-have for Hong Kong hikers

Real-time location sharing and other updates will make the app even more useful to the growing numbers of outdoors enthusiasts

Reading Time:2 minutes
Why you can trust SCMP
1
Hikers walk along the trail on Lantau’s Sunset Peak amid a sea of silvergrass in 2024. Photo: Elson Li
SCMP Editorial
The popularity of hiking in Hong Kong has risen as steeply as some of the scenic slopes scaled by the walkers who venture onto the city’s country trails. Many residents took up the pursuit during the pandemic, seeking solace in the hills. Visitors are drawn to the beauty of the country parks, promoted by the government as tourist hotspots. The start of the hiking season has seen crowds flock to sites celebrated for their silvergrass.

But a healthy activity like hiking can come with risks. Nineteen people lost their lives last year.

A police app, launched in January 2024, is helping to keep hikers safe, making it easier for them to be rescued if in trouble. It has led to 113 rescue operations involving 272 people. Hikers enter their itinerary on the app, which is linked to the 999 emergency hotline. It uses artificial intelligence to identify potential emergencies and automatically triggers responses.
Advertisement

The ability of rescuers to use the technology to locate distressed hikers, even if they have no telephone signal, is critical.

An upgrade, from next month, will allow real-time location sharing, enabling hikers in groups to be constantly aware of each other’s whereabouts and protecting those who lag behind or stray. The number of emergency contacts is to be increased from three to five, strengthening the ability of friends and family to track the hike.

Advertisement

Technology is making a difference. The app has been downloaded 150,000 times and used for 66,000 hikes. It should be deployed by everyone setting out on a trek. The app should be further promoted, especially among tourists who might not be familiar with the risks.

Advertisement
Select Voice
Choose your listening speed
Get through articles 2x faster
1.25x
250 WPM
Slow
Average
Fast
1.25x