Hong Kong will prohibit drivers from putting more than two phones on their dashboards starting in January.

HONG KONG, Aug 31 — Starting in January next year, Hong Kong will prohibit drivers from having more than two mobile phones on their vehicle dashboards. This measure is part of the initiative to enhance road safety, as reported by Singapore's CNA.

Transport and Logistics Secretary Mable Chan mentioned in her weekly blog yesterday that the proposal will be presented in the Legislative Council next month. This is part of a larger effort to improve taxi service quality, minimize conflicts, and make the city more attractive to visitors.

The new rule will start on January 25 and will affect all drivers.

"This change aims to enhance road safety even more... Many will quickly think of the phones attached to taxi meters," Chan was quoted as saying by CNA.

She mentioned that the changes were intended to balance road safety with the industry's operational requirements and technological advancements.

According to the report, some of the city's 40,000 taxi drivers have raised concerns about road safety. They mentioned that they depend on several smartphones and devices to manage online orders while driving.

At present, Hong Kong's Road Traffic Ordinance only punishes drivers for using their phones while driving, with violators facing a maximum penalty of HK$2,000 (US$257).

Chan also reminded parents that starting November 1, new rules will mandate that children under eight years old and shorter than 1.35 meters must use a child restraint device, like a safety seat, when riding in a private vehicle.

"As the new school year starts, all parents need to get ready for this change," she was quoted as saying.