Array
(
[derick] => Array
(
[Ferries, dogs, bicycles and a shifting landscape are all in a day’s work for a “walker” courier.] => フェリーや犬、自転車に移り変わる景色。これらはすべて"徒歩"配達員の日常の仕事の一部です。
[[]] =>
[Island hopping: How couriers cope on Hong Kong’s ever-changing archipelago] => アイランドホッピング：香港の島々を担当する配達スタッフの仕事
[Hong Kong’s dense urban jungle presents a complex challenge to couriers, but that doesn’t make the territory’s islands a walk-over.
While the city requires a mix of route optimization software and hands-on experience to get the job done, this is very different for couriers who make the trek to Hong Kong’s outer islands.
These physically-intensive deliveries demand a different skillset, from cycling and ferry-hopping, to a dose of dog-whispering.
Delivering to Hong Kong’s remote islands
Hong Kong may have one of the densest populations on Earth, but a sizeable chunk of its population lives on some of the 260 “outer” islands. Many of these are less developed and connected than the urban areas, with some lacking roads and public transport, and most are reachable only by infrequent ferry services.
[caption id="attachment_28712" align="alignnone" width="1200"] From the ferry terminals, walker couriers are expected to navigate their way around the islands on their own.[/caption]
Couriers delivering to the outlying islands, however, share a trait with their urban counterparts: delivering packages is best done by foot. Walkers are dropped off by a DHL van at the ferry pier, where they split up and set off on their own journeys.
Armed with specially designed backpacks that hold up to 15 small packages, they take different ferry rides to Lantau, Lamma island, Peng Chau or Cheung Chau.
The furthest destination by far for the walkers is Sea Ranch, a part of Lantau island accessible only via infrequent ferry rides. The couriers have to first get to Cheung Chau, then take another ferry from there to Sea Ranch, taking three hours to reach their destination.
[caption id="attachment_28717" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Bicycles are used to get around areas like Mui Wo, which has a flatter terrain and fewer staircases.[/caption]
Each island presents a different set of challenges. In Mui Wo, a town on Lantau island, many of the villages are remotely located. Once ashore, the walker rents a bicycle to speed up deliveries.
On both Cheung Chau and Lamma island, there is no public transport available. Cheung Chau, known as dumbbell island for its elongated shape, is packed into narrow lanes too tight for normal vehicles. That makes it easier for a walker, who can reach their destinations on foot within five to 10 minutes.
[caption id="attachment_28707" align="alignnone" width="1200"] A combination of walking and cycling is required for couriers to reach remote locations.[/caption]
The 7,000 inhabitants of Lamma, on the other hand, are clustered into enclaves scattered over some 14 sq km. It takes 30 minutes for the couriers to walk from the more densely populated areas near Yung Shue Wan pier to reach the next village of Hung Shing Yeh Wan.
In some of the islands’ older districts, street numbers are not always in sequence, requiring a phone call to ask for directions.
[caption id="attachment_28722" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Communicating with customers is key for the walkers to find their way around Hong Kong's residential areas.[/caption]
Many of the islands are populated by wild hounds and gatekeeping dogs. “In extreme cases, the couriers have been chased, and even attacked and bitten by the dogs,” noted Boris Chui, Vice President, Operations, DHL Express Hong Kong. “To ensure their safety, we started bringing in professional dog trainers to conduct annual workshops and sharing sessions.”
[caption id="attachment_28727" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Whether it's stray dogs on the island or gatekeeping hounds, aggressive canines are one of the many challenges that deter walkers on their journey.[/caption]
During these sessions, the couriers are taught some key skills in recognizing the warning signs of aggression, and how to prevent themselves from being attacked by the dogs.
When approaching residential areas, the couriers stay alert and listen out for barking. Upon detecting the presence of a dog that is off-leash on the premises, the couriers are to contact the customer before approaching. They are also instructed to make slow movements, and speak at lower tones and softer volumes.
If a dog starts chasing them, couriers are taught to jump on a wall or higher ground. They are also taught to perform basic first-aid in the rare case they get bitten.
Weather can be a hazard too. Hong Kong, being a coastal city, is prone to storms and typhoons from May to October.
[caption id="attachment_28732" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Employees in Hong Kong use temporary wooden reinforcements to block a window that was broken during the typhoon.[/caption]
During typhoons, there are usually pre-alerts and ferry companies would also announce the time for final ferry trips ahead of time. The QCC team also closely monitors announcements from the Hong Kong Observatory and Hong Kong Transportation Department. The announcements keep the couriers informed, often giving them advanced warnings to proceed with haste, or adopt contingency plans.
[caption id="attachment_28737" align="alignnone" width="1200"] In cases of unexpected emergencies or accidents, walkers have to think quickly on their feet, while listening to the lead courier's instructions.[/caption]
“Whether it’s avoiding the canines or knowing where the bike rental services are, it’s important for the walkers to know which alternative solutions they can implement when there are any exceptions,” said Chui. “Our lead couriers monitor the weather and contact the walkers with instructions in the case of any emergencies. But if there happen to be any unexpected incidents on the islands, it is up to the walkers to stay alert and adapt according to the situation with staff safety as their top priority.”
Adapting to Hong Kong’s ever-changing landscape
Hong Kong is a collection of islands, many of which are now connected by bridge or land, as part of the territory’s ever more ambitious plans for land reclamation and infrastructure development. Since 1877, over 70 sq km of land has been reclaimed in Hong Kong, opening up the territory to exponential population and economic growth.
[caption id="attachment_28742" align="alignnone" width="1200"] In 2018, reclaimed land represented 25 percent of Hong Kong's developed land. It housed around 27 percent of Hong Kong's population and 70 percent of its business activities.[/caption]
In the coming decade, the territory has plans to build vast artificial islands, and establish Lantau as a “double gateway” to the world and the Greater Bay Area. This will transform both the landscape and the job of a walker courier.
“In the past when there was no road transport, couriers had to take ferry trips adding up to a one and a half hours journey to reach discovery bay on Lantau island from the service center. Now, it’s just a half hour’s drive away,” said Chui.
[caption id="attachment_28747" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Infrastructural development in Hong Kong's outer islands has made more convenient journeys for the walkers.[/caption]
And as the islands get further developed, the walkers will continue to improve their routes for shorter journeys and delivery times.
“When better transport options surface, we will definitely adapt our routes accordingly, to make the journeys more convenient for our walkers, and to better serve our customers in the outlying islands,” said Chui.] => 香港の密集した都会のジャングルには、宅配便業者にとって複雑な課題がありますが、だからといって香港の島々も簡単だという訳ではありません。
都市部では、ルートを最適化するソフトウエアや、現場での経験がものを言いますが、香港の島々を歩いて配達するクーリエにとっては全く異なります。
体力重視の配達には、サイクリングやフェリーの乗り継ぎから、たくさんの犬のささやきなど様々な対処技術が求められます。
香港は島々の集合体であり、その多くが橋や陸路で結ばれています。これは、香港がこれまで以上に意欲的に進めてきた埋め立てとインフラ整備の一環によるもので、1877年以来、香港では70平方キロメートル以上の土地が埋め立てられ、人口と経済の飛躍的な成長に向けてその土地が開放されてきました。
[caption id="attachment_28742" align="alignnone" width="1200"] 2018年、埋立地は香港の開発地の25％を占めていました。香港の人口の約27％、経済活動の70％を収容している。[/caption]
今後10年で、広大な人工島を建設し、ランタオを世界とグレーターベイエリアへの「ダブルゲートウェイ」として確立する計画があります。それは景観も徒歩配達員の仕事も一変させるでしょう。
「かつて道路交通がなかった時代、配達員はサービスセンターからランタオ島のディスカバリーベイまで、1時間半もかけてフェリーに乗って行かなければなりませんでした。今では、車で30分も走れば到着します」と、Chui氏は言います。
[caption id="attachment_28747" align="alignnone" width="1200"] 香港の離島でのインフラ開発は、歩行者にとって便利な旅をもたらしている。[/caption]
島の開発が進めば進むほど、より短い距離と時間での配達を実現させるために、徒歩配達員たちは更なるルートの改良を続けていくでしょう。
「交通の便がよくなれば、それに合わせてルートを変更し、徒歩配達員とってより便利で、離島のお客様にもよりよいサービスを提供できるようになります」とChui氏と述べています。
[wysiwyg] => wysiwyg
[Ferries, dogs, bicycles and a shifting landscape are all in a day’s work for a “walker” courier. Hong Kong’s dense urban jungle presents a complex challenge to couriers, but that doesn’t make the territory’s islands a walk-over.
While the city requires a mix of route optimization software and hands-on experience to get the job done, this is very different for couriers who make the trek to Hong Kong’s outer islands.
These physically-intensive deliveries demand a different skillset, from cycling and ferry-hopping, to a dose of dog-whispering.
Delivering to Hong Kong’s remote islands
Hong Kong may have one of the densest populations on Earth, but a sizeable chunk of its population lives on some of the 260 “outer” islands. Many of these are less developed and connected than the urban areas, with some lacking roads and public transport, and most are reachable only by infrequent ferry services.
From the ferry terminals, walker couriers are expected to navigate their way around the islands on their own.
Couriers delivering to the outlying islands, however, share a trait with their urban counterparts: delivering packages is best done by foot. Walkers are dropped off by a DHL van at the ferry pier, where they split up and set off on their own journeys.
Armed with specially designed backpacks that hold up to 15 small packages, they take different ferry rides to Lantau, Lamma island, Peng Chau or Cheung Chau.
The furthest destination by far for the walkers is Sea Ranch, a part of Lantau island accessible only via infrequent ferry rides. The couriers have to first get to Cheung Chau, then take another ferry from there to Sea Ranch, taking three hours to reach their destination.
Bicycles are used to get around areas like Mui Wo, which has a flatter terrain and fewer staircases.
Each island presents a different set of challenges. In Mui Wo, a town on Lantau island, many of the villages are remotely located. Once ashore, the walker rents a bicycle to speed up deliveries.
On both Cheung Chau and Lamma island, there is no public transport available. Cheung Chau, known as dumbbell island for its elongated shape, is packed into narrow lanes too tight for normal vehicles. That makes it easier for a walker, who can reach their destinations on foot within five to 10 minutes.
A combination of walking and cycling is required for couriers to reach remote locations.
The 7,000 inhabitants of Lamma, on the other hand, are clustered into enclaves scattered over some 14 sq km. It takes 30 minutes for the couriers to walk from the more densely populated areas near Yung Shue Wan pier to reach the next village of Hung Shing Yeh Wan.
In some of the islands’ older districts, street numbers are not always in sequence, requiring a phone call to ask for directions.
Communicating with customers is key for the walkers to find their way around Hong Kong’s residential areas.
Many of the islands are populated by wild hounds and gatekeeping dogs. “In extreme cases, the couriers have been chased, and even attacked and bitten by the dogs,” noted Boris Chui, Vice President, Operations, DHL Express Hong Kong. “To ensure their safety, we started bringing in professional dog trainers to conduct annual workshops and sharing sessions.”
Whether it’s stray dogs on the island or gatekeeping hounds, aggressive canines are one of the many challenges that deter walkers on their journey.
During these sessions, the couriers are taught some key skills in recognizing the warning signs of aggression, and how to prevent themselves from being attacked by the dogs.
When approaching residential areas, the couriers stay alert and listen out for barking. Upon detecting the presence of a dog that is off-leash on the premises, the couriers are to contact the customer before approaching. They are also instructed to make slow movements, and speak at lower tones and softer volumes.
If a dog starts chasing them, couriers are taught to jump on a wall or higher ground. They are also taught to perform basic first-aid in the rare case they get bitten.
Weather can be a hazard too. Hong Kong, being a coastal city, is prone to storms and typhoons from May to October.
Employees in Hong Kong use temporary wooden reinforcements to block a window that was broken during the typhoon.
During typhoons, there are usually pre-alerts and ferry companies would also announce the time for final ferry trips ahead of time. The QCC team also closely monitors announcements from the Hong Kong Observatory and Hong Kong Transportation Department. The announcements keep the couriers informed, often giving them advanced warnings to proceed with haste, or adopt contingency plans.
In cases of unexpected emergencies or accidents, walkers have to think quickly on their feet, while listening to the lead courier’s instructions.
“Whether it’s avoiding the canines or knowing where the bike rental services are, it’s important for the walkers to know which alternative solutions they can implement when there are any exceptions,” said Chui. “Our lead couriers monitor the weather and contact the walkers with instructions in the case of any emergencies. But if there happen to be any unexpected incidents on the islands, it is up to the walkers to stay alert and adapt according to the situation with staff safety as their top priority.”
Adapting to Hong Kong’s ever-changing landscape
Hong Kong is a collection of islands, many of which are now connected by bridge or land, as part of the territory’s ever more ambitious plans for land reclamation and infrastructure development. Since 1877, over 70 sq km of land has been reclaimed in Hong Kong, opening up the territory to exponential population and economic growth.
In 2018, reclaimed land represented 25 percent of Hong Kong’s developed land. It housed around 27 percent of Hong Kong’s population and 70 percent of its business activities.
In the coming decade, the territory has plans to build vast artificial islands, and establish Lantau as a “double gateway” to the world and the Greater Bay Area. This will transform both the landscape and the job of a walker courier.
“In the past when there was no road transport, couriers had to take ferry trips adding up to a one and a half hours journey to reach discovery bay on Lantau island from the service center. Now, it’s just a half hour’s drive away,” said Chui.
Infrastructural development in Hong Kong’s outer islands has made more convenient journeys for the walkers.
And as the islands get further developed, the walkers will continue to improve their routes for shorter journeys and delivery times.
“When better transport options surface, we will definitely adapt our routes accordingly, to make the journeys more convenient for our walkers, and to better serve our customers in the outlying islands,” said Chui.] =>
[] =>
[island-hopping-how-couriers-cope-on-hong-kongs-ever-changing-archipelago] => island-hopping-how-couriers-cope-on-hong-kongs-ever-changing-archipelago
[Hong Kong] =>
[Walker backpack on fenced lane 1200x630] => Walker backpack on fenced lane 1200x630
[Walker bicycle renting 1200x630] => Walker bicycle renting 1200x630
[Walker Mui Woo 1200x630] => Walker Mui Woo 1200x630
[Walker Bike residence 1200x630] => Walker Bike residence 1200x630
[Walker Hounds 1200x630] => Walker Hounds 1200x630
[Broken Window 1200x630] => Broken Window 1200x630
[Walker cycling from ferry 1200x630] => Walker cycling from ferry 1200x630
[Hong Kong land reclamation 1200x630] => Hong Kong land reclamation 1200x630
[Walker Looking Up 1200x630] => Walker Looking Up 1200x630
[Walker cycling on fenced lane 300x248] => Walker cycling on fenced lane 300x248
[Walker cycling on fenced lane 1200x630] => Walker cycling on fenced lane 1200x630
)
[$value] => Hong Kong’s dense urban jungle presents a complex challenge to couriers, but that doesn’t make the territory’s islands a walk-over.
While the city requires a mix of route optimization software and hands-on experience to get the job done, this is very different for couriers who make the trek to Hong Kong’s outer islands.
These physically-intensive deliveries demand a different skillset, from cycling and ferry-hopping, to a dose of dog-whispering.
Delivering to Hong Kong’s remote islands
Hong Kong may have one of the densest populations on Earth, but a sizeable chunk of its population lives on some of the 260 “outer” islands. Many of these are less developed and connected than the urban areas, with some lacking roads and public transport, and most are reachable only by infrequent ferry services.
[caption id="attachment_28712" align="alignnone" width="1200"] From the ferry terminals, walker couriers are expected to navigate their way around the islands on their own.[/caption]
Couriers delivering to the outlying islands, however, share a trait with their urban counterparts: delivering packages is best done by foot. Walkers are dropped off by a DHL van at the ferry pier, where they split up and set off on their own journeys.
Armed with specially designed backpacks that hold up to 15 small packages, they take different ferry rides to Lantau, Lamma island, Peng Chau or Cheung Chau.
The furthest destination by far for the walkers is Sea Ranch, a part of Lantau island accessible only via infrequent ferry rides. The couriers have to first get to Cheung Chau, then take another ferry from there to Sea Ranch, taking three hours to reach their destination.
[caption id="attachment_28717" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Bicycles are used to get around areas like Mui Wo, which has a flatter terrain and fewer staircases.[/caption]
Each island presents a different set of challenges. In Mui Wo, a town on Lantau island, many of the villages are remotely located. Once ashore, the walker rents a bicycle to speed up deliveries.
On both Cheung Chau and Lamma island, there is no public transport available. Cheung Chau, known as dumbbell island for its elongated shape, is packed into narrow lanes too tight for normal vehicles. That makes it easier for a walker, who can reach their destinations on foot within five to 10 minutes.
[caption id="attachment_28707" align="alignnone" width="1200"] A combination of walking and cycling is required for couriers to reach remote locations.[/caption]
The 7,000 inhabitants of Lamma, on the other hand, are clustered into enclaves scattered over some 14 sq km. It takes 30 minutes for the couriers to walk from the more densely populated areas near Yung Shue Wan pier to reach the next village of Hung Shing Yeh Wan.
In some of the islands’ older districts, street numbers are not always in sequence, requiring a phone call to ask for directions.
[caption id="attachment_28722" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Communicating with customers is key for the walkers to find their way around Hong Kong's residential areas.[/caption]
Many of the islands are populated by wild hounds and gatekeeping dogs. “In extreme cases, the couriers have been chased, and even attacked and bitten by the dogs,” noted Boris Chui, Vice President, Operations, DHL Express Hong Kong. “To ensure their safety, we started bringing in professional dog trainers to conduct annual workshops and sharing sessions.”
[caption id="attachment_28727" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Whether it's stray dogs on the island or gatekeeping hounds, aggressive canines are one of the many challenges that deter walkers on their journey.[/caption]
During these sessions, the couriers are taught some key skills in recognizing the warning signs of aggression, and how to prevent themselves from being attacked by the dogs.
When approaching residential areas, the couriers stay alert and listen out for barking. Upon detecting the presence of a dog that is off-leash on the premises, the couriers are to contact the customer before approaching. They are also instructed to make slow movements, and speak at lower tones and softer volumes.
If a dog starts chasing them, couriers are taught to jump on a wall or higher ground. They are also taught to perform basic first-aid in the rare case they get bitten.
Weather can be a hazard too. Hong Kong, being a coastal city, is prone to storms and typhoons from May to October.
[caption id="attachment_28732" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Employees in Hong Kong use temporary wooden reinforcements to block a window that was broken during the typhoon.[/caption]
During typhoons, there are usually pre-alerts and ferry companies would also announce the time for final ferry trips ahead of time. The QCC team also closely monitors announcements from the Hong Kong Observatory and Hong Kong Transportation Department. The announcements keep the couriers informed, often giving them advanced warnings to proceed with haste, or adopt contingency plans.
[caption id="attachment_28737" align="alignnone" width="1200"] In cases of unexpected emergencies or accidents, walkers have to think quickly on their feet, while listening to the lead courier's instructions.[/caption]
“Whether it’s avoiding the canines or knowing where the bike rental services are, it’s important for the walkers to know which alternative solutions they can implement when there are any exceptions,” said Chui. “Our lead couriers monitor the weather and contact the walkers with instructions in the case of any emergencies. But if there happen to be any unexpected incidents on the islands, it is up to the walkers to stay alert and adapt according to the situation with staff safety as their top priority.”
Adapting to Hong Kong’s ever-changing landscape
Hong Kong is a collection of islands, many of which are now connected by bridge or land, as part of the territory’s ever more ambitious plans for land reclamation and infrastructure development. Since 1877, over 70 sq km of land has been reclaimed in Hong Kong, opening up the territory to exponential population and economic growth.
[caption id="attachment_28742" align="alignnone" width="1200"] In 2018, reclaimed land represented 25 percent of Hong Kong's developed land. It housed around 27 percent of Hong Kong's population and 70 percent of its business activities.[/caption]
In the coming decade, the territory has plans to build vast artificial islands, and establish Lantau as a “double gateway” to the world and the Greater Bay Area. This will transform both the landscape and the job of a walker courier.
“In the past when there was no road transport, couriers had to take ferry trips adding up to a one and a half hours journey to reach discovery bay on Lantau island from the service center. Now, it’s just a half hour’s drive away,” said Chui.
[caption id="attachment_28747" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Infrastructural development in Hong Kong's outer islands has made more convenient journeys for the walkers.[/caption]
And as the islands get further developed, the walkers will continue to improve their routes for shorter journeys and delivery times.
“When better transport options surface, we will definitely adapt our routes accordingly, to make the journeys more convenient for our walkers, and to better serve our customers in the outlying islands,” said Chui.
)
Array
(
[Ferries, dogs, bicycles and a shifting landscape are all in a day’s work for a “walker” courier.] => フェリーや犬、自転車に移り変わる景色。これらはすべて"徒歩"配達員の日常の仕事の一部です。
[[]] =>
[Island hopping: How couriers cope on Hong Kong’s ever-changing archipelago] => アイランドホッピング：香港の島々を担当する配達スタッフの仕事
[Hong Kong’s dense urban jungle presents a complex challenge to couriers, but that doesn’t make the territory’s islands a walk-over.
While the city requires a mix of route optimization software and hands-on experience to get the job done, this is very different for couriers who make the trek to Hong Kong’s outer islands.
These physically-intensive deliveries demand a different skillset, from cycling and ferry-hopping, to a dose of dog-whispering.
Delivering to Hong Kong’s remote islands
Hong Kong may have one of the densest populations on Earth, but a sizeable chunk of its population lives on some of the 260 “outer” islands. Many of these are less developed and connected than the urban areas, with some lacking roads and public transport, and most are reachable only by infrequent ferry services.
[caption id="attachment_28712" align="alignnone" width="1200"] From the ferry terminals, walker couriers are expected to navigate their way around the islands on their own.[/caption]
Couriers delivering to the outlying islands, however, share a trait with their urban counterparts: delivering packages is best done by foot. Walkers are dropped off by a DHL van at the ferry pier, where they split up and set off on their own journeys.
Armed with specially designed backpacks that hold up to 15 small packages, they take different ferry rides to Lantau, Lamma island, Peng Chau or Cheung Chau.
The furthest destination by far for the walkers is Sea Ranch, a part of Lantau island accessible only via infrequent ferry rides. The couriers have to first get to Cheung Chau, then take another ferry from there to Sea Ranch, taking three hours to reach their destination.
[caption id="attachment_28717" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Bicycles are used to get around areas like Mui Wo, which has a flatter terrain and fewer staircases.[/caption]
Each island presents a different set of challenges. In Mui Wo, a town on Lantau island, many of the villages are remotely located. Once ashore, the walker rents a bicycle to speed up deliveries.
On both Cheung Chau and Lamma island, there is no public transport available. Cheung Chau, known as dumbbell island for its elongated shape, is packed into narrow lanes too tight for normal vehicles. That makes it easier for a walker, who can reach their destinations on foot within five to 10 minutes.
[caption id="attachment_28707" align="alignnone" width="1200"] A combination of walking and cycling is required for couriers to reach remote locations.[/caption]
The 7,000 inhabitants of Lamma, on the other hand, are clustered into enclaves scattered over some 14 sq km. It takes 30 minutes for the couriers to walk from the more densely populated areas near Yung Shue Wan pier to reach the next village of Hung Shing Yeh Wan.
In some of the islands’ older districts, street numbers are not always in sequence, requiring a phone call to ask for directions.
[caption id="attachment_28722" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Communicating with customers is key for the walkers to find their way around Hong Kong's residential areas.[/caption]
Many of the islands are populated by wild hounds and gatekeeping dogs. “In extreme cases, the couriers have been chased, and even attacked and bitten by the dogs,” noted Boris Chui, Vice President, Operations, DHL Express Hong Kong. “To ensure their safety, we started bringing in professional dog trainers to conduct annual workshops and sharing sessions.”
[caption id="attachment_28727" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Whether it's stray dogs on the island or gatekeeping hounds, aggressive canines are one of the many challenges that deter walkers on their journey.[/caption]
During these sessions, the couriers are taught some key skills in recognizing the warning signs of aggression, and how to prevent themselves from being attacked by the dogs.
When approaching residential areas, the couriers stay alert and listen out for barking. Upon detecting the presence of a dog that is off-leash on the premises, the couriers are to contact the customer before approaching. They are also instructed to make slow movements, and speak at lower tones and softer volumes.
If a dog starts chasing them, couriers are taught to jump on a wall or higher ground. They are also taught to perform basic first-aid in the rare case they get bitten.
Weather can be a hazard too. Hong Kong, being a coastal city, is prone to storms and typhoons from May to October.
[caption id="attachment_28732" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Employees in Hong Kong use temporary wooden reinforcements to block a window that was broken during the typhoon.[/caption]
During typhoons, there are usually pre-alerts and ferry companies would also announce the time for final ferry trips ahead of time. The QCC team also closely monitors announcements from the Hong Kong Observatory and Hong Kong Transportation Department. The announcements keep the couriers informed, often giving them advanced warnings to proceed with haste, or adopt contingency plans.
[caption id="attachment_28737" align="alignnone" width="1200"] In cases of unexpected emergencies or accidents, walkers have to think quickly on their feet, while listening to the lead courier's instructions.[/caption]
“Whether it’s avoiding the canines or knowing where the bike rental services are, it’s important for the walkers to know which alternative solutions they can implement when there are any exceptions,” said Chui. “Our lead couriers monitor the weather and contact the walkers with instructions in the case of any emergencies. But if there happen to be any unexpected incidents on the islands, it is up to the walkers to stay alert and adapt according to the situation with staff safety as their top priority.”
Adapting to Hong Kong’s ever-changing landscape
Hong Kong is a collection of islands, many of which are now connected by bridge or land, as part of the territory’s ever more ambitious plans for land reclamation and infrastructure development. Since 1877, over 70 sq km of land has been reclaimed in Hong Kong, opening up the territory to exponential population and economic growth.
[caption id="attachment_28742" align="alignnone" width="1200"] In 2018, reclaimed land represented 25 percent of Hong Kong's developed land. It housed around 27 percent of Hong Kong's population and 70 percent of its business activities.[/caption]
In the coming decade, the territory has plans to build vast artificial islands, and establish Lantau as a “double gateway” to the world and the Greater Bay Area. This will transform both the landscape and the job of a walker courier.
“In the past when there was no road transport, couriers had to take ferry trips adding up to a one and a half hours journey to reach discovery bay on Lantau island from the service center. Now, it’s just a half hour’s drive away,” said Chui.
[caption id="attachment_28747" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Infrastructural development in Hong Kong's outer islands has made more convenient journeys for the walkers.[/caption]
And as the islands get further developed, the walkers will continue to improve their routes for shorter journeys and delivery times.
“When better transport options surface, we will definitely adapt our routes accordingly, to make the journeys more convenient for our walkers, and to better serve our customers in the outlying islands,” said Chui.] => 香港の密集した都会のジャングルには、宅配便業者にとって複雑な課題がありますが、だからといって香港の島々も簡単だという訳ではありません。
都市部では、ルートを最適化するソフトウエアや、現場での経験がものを言いますが、香港の島々を歩いて配達するクーリエにとっては全く異なります。
体力重視の配達には、サイクリングやフェリーの乗り継ぎから、たくさんの犬のささやきなど様々な対処技術が求められます。
香港は島々の集合体であり、その多くが橋や陸路で結ばれています。これは、香港がこれまで以上に意欲的に進めてきた埋め立てとインフラ整備の一環によるもので、1877年以来、香港では70平方キロメートル以上の土地が埋め立てられ、人口と経済の飛躍的な成長に向けてその土地が開放されてきました。
[caption id="attachment_28742" align="alignnone" width="1200"] 2018年、埋立地は香港の開発地の25％を占めていました。香港の人口の約27％、経済活動の70％を収容している。[/caption]
今後10年で、広大な人工島を建設し、ランタオを世界とグレーターベイエリアへの「ダブルゲートウェイ」として確立する計画があります。それは景観も徒歩配達員の仕事も一変させるでしょう。
「かつて道路交通がなかった時代、配達員はサービスセンターからランタオ島のディスカバリーベイまで、1時間半もかけてフェリーに乗って行かなければなりませんでした。今では、車で30分も走れば到着します」と、Chui氏は言います。
[caption id="attachment_28747" align="alignnone" width="1200"] 香港の離島でのインフラ開発は、歩行者にとって便利な旅をもたらしている。[/caption]
島の開発が進めば進むほど、より短い距離と時間での配達を実現させるために、徒歩配達員たちは更なるルートの改良を続けていくでしょう。
「交通の便がよくなれば、それに合わせてルートを変更し、徒歩配達員とってより便利で、離島のお客様にもよりよいサービスを提供できるようになります」とChui氏と述べています。
[wysiwyg] => wysiwyg
[Ferries, dogs, bicycles and a shifting landscape are all in a day’s work for a “walker” courier. Hong Kong’s dense urban jungle presents a complex challenge to couriers, but that doesn’t make the territory’s islands a walk-over.
While the city requires a mix of route optimization software and hands-on experience to get the job done, this is very different for couriers who make the trek to Hong Kong’s outer islands.
These physically-intensive deliveries demand a different skillset, from cycling and ferry-hopping, to a dose of dog-whispering.
Delivering to Hong Kong’s remote islands
Hong Kong may have one of the densest populations on Earth, but a sizeable chunk of its population lives on some of the 260 “outer” islands. Many of these are less developed and connected than the urban areas, with some lacking roads and public transport, and most are reachable only by infrequent ferry services.
From the ferry terminals, walker couriers are expected to navigate their way around the islands on their own.
Couriers delivering to the outlying islands, however, share a trait with their urban counterparts: delivering packages is best done by foot. Walkers are dropped off by a DHL van at the ferry pier, where they split up and set off on their own journeys.
Armed with specially designed backpacks that hold up to 15 small packages, they take different ferry rides to Lantau, Lamma island, Peng Chau or Cheung Chau.
The furthest destination by far for the walkers is Sea Ranch, a part of Lantau island accessible only via infrequent ferry rides. The couriers have to first get to Cheung Chau, then take another ferry from there to Sea Ranch, taking three hours to reach their destination.
Bicycles are used to get around areas like Mui Wo, which has a flatter terrain and fewer staircases.
Each island presents a different set of challenges. In Mui Wo, a town on Lantau island, many of the villages are remotely located. Once ashore, the walker rents a bicycle to speed up deliveries.
On both Cheung Chau and Lamma island, there is no public transport available. Cheung Chau, known as dumbbell island for its elongated shape, is packed into narrow lanes too tight for normal vehicles. That makes it easier for a walker, who can reach their destinations on foot within five to 10 minutes.
A combination of walking and cycling is required for couriers to reach remote locations.
The 7,000 inhabitants of Lamma, on the other hand, are clustered into enclaves scattered over some 14 sq km. It takes 30 minutes for the couriers to walk from the more densely populated areas near Yung Shue Wan pier to reach the next village of Hung Shing Yeh Wan.
In some of the islands’ older districts, street numbers are not always in sequence, requiring a phone call to ask for directions.
Communicating with customers is key for the walkers to find their way around Hong Kong’s residential areas.
Many of the islands are populated by wild hounds and gatekeeping dogs. “In extreme cases, the couriers have been chased, and even attacked and bitten by the dogs,” noted Boris Chui, Vice President, Operations, DHL Express Hong Kong. “To ensure their safety, we started bringing in professional dog trainers to conduct annual workshops and sharing sessions.”
Whether it’s stray dogs on the island or gatekeeping hounds, aggressive canines are one of the many challenges that deter walkers on their journey.
During these sessions, the couriers are taught some key skills in recognizing the warning signs of aggression, and how to prevent themselves from being attacked by the dogs.
When approaching residential areas, the couriers stay alert and listen out for barking. Upon detecting the presence of a dog that is off-leash on the premises, the couriers are to contact the customer before approaching. They are also instructed to make slow movements, and speak at lower tones and softer volumes.
If a dog starts chasing them, couriers are taught to jump on a wall or higher ground. They are also taught to perform basic first-aid in the rare case they get bitten.
Weather can be a hazard too. Hong Kong, being a coastal city, is prone to storms and typhoons from May to October.
Employees in Hong Kong use temporary wooden reinforcements to block a window that was broken during the typhoon.
During typhoons, there are usually pre-alerts and ferry companies would also announce the time for final ferry trips ahead of time. The QCC team also closely monitors announcements from the Hong Kong Observatory and Hong Kong Transportation Department. The announcements keep the couriers informed, often giving them advanced warnings to proceed with haste, or adopt contingency plans.
In cases of unexpected emergencies or accidents, walkers have to think quickly on their feet, while listening to the lead courier’s instructions.
“Whether it’s avoiding the canines or knowing where the bike rental services are, it’s important for the walkers to know which alternative solutions they can implement when there are any exceptions,” said Chui. “Our lead couriers monitor the weather and contact the walkers with instructions in the case of any emergencies. But if there happen to be any unexpected incidents on the islands, it is up to the walkers to stay alert and adapt according to the situation with staff safety as their top priority.”
Adapting to Hong Kong’s ever-changing landscape
Hong Kong is a collection of islands, many of which are now connected by bridge or land, as part of the territory’s ever more ambitious plans for land reclamation and infrastructure development. Since 1877, over 70 sq km of land has been reclaimed in Hong Kong, opening up the territory to exponential population and economic growth.
In 2018, reclaimed land represented 25 percent of Hong Kong’s developed land. It housed around 27 percent of Hong Kong’s population and 70 percent of its business activities.
In the coming decade, the territory has plans to build vast artificial islands, and establish Lantau as a “double gateway” to the world and the Greater Bay Area. This will transform both the landscape and the job of a walker courier.
“In the past when there was no road transport, couriers had to take ferry trips adding up to a one and a half hours journey to reach discovery bay on Lantau island from the service center. Now, it’s just a half hour’s drive away,” said Chui.
Infrastructural development in Hong Kong’s outer islands has made more convenient journeys for the walkers.
And as the islands get further developed, the walkers will continue to improve their routes for shorter journeys and delivery times.
“When better transport options surface, we will definitely adapt our routes accordingly, to make the journeys more convenient for our walkers, and to better serve our customers in the outlying islands,” said Chui.] =>
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[island-hopping-how-couriers-cope-on-hong-kongs-ever-changing-archipelago] => island-hopping-how-couriers-cope-on-hong-kongs-ever-changing-archipelago
[Hong Kong] =>
[Walker backpack on fenced lane 1200x630] => Walker backpack on fenced lane 1200x630
[Walker bicycle renting 1200x630] => Walker bicycle renting 1200x630
[Walker Mui Woo 1200x630] => Walker Mui Woo 1200x630
[Walker Bike residence 1200x630] => Walker Bike residence 1200x630
[Walker Hounds 1200x630] => Walker Hounds 1200x630
[Broken Window 1200x630] => Broken Window 1200x630
[Walker cycling from ferry 1200x630] => Walker cycling from ferry 1200x630
[Hong Kong land reclamation 1200x630] => Hong Kong land reclamation 1200x630
[Walker Looking Up 1200x630] => Walker Looking Up 1200x630
[Walker cycling on fenced lane 300x248] => Walker cycling on fenced lane 300x248
[Walker cycling on fenced lane 1200x630] => Walker cycling on fenced lane 1200x630
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徒歩配達員は、フェリーターミナルから目的地まで、自分自身で道を探す必要がある。[/caption]
離島への宅配も、都会と同じ特徴があります。荷物の配達は 徒歩で行うのが最適ということ。徒歩の場合、フェリー乗り場でDHLのバンに荷下ろしされ、そこから二手に分かれて出発していきます。
最大15個の荷物が入る特別仕様のバックパックを背負い、ランタオ島、ラマ島、坪州、長州と、それぞれ異なるフェリーに乗って移動します。
徒歩配達員にとって、これまでで最も遠い目的地は、少ない便しか運航していないランタオ島の一部、シーランチ（澄碧村）です。配達員はまず長州島に行き、それから別のフェリーに乗り換える必要があり、約３時間かかります。
[caption id="attachment_28717" align="alignnone" width="1200"]
日本語