The MTR Corporation on Tuesday said all of its platforms will have screen doors by next year.

The rail giant has started installing automatic platform gates at 13 stations along the East Rail Line, with works at Racecourse and Lok Ma Chau stations completed.

It expects to finish installing gates at nine stations by the end of this year.

Speaking to reporters, MTR’s general manager in electrical and mechanical construction, Tim Leung, said the installation would make passengers’ journeys safer and prevent accidents.

“The main objective of the APG (automatic platform gate) is to provide a convenient and also a reliable service for the customers during the access of the train.”

Leung added that the MTR has begun installing platform gates at Tai Po Market, Sheung Shui, Tai Wai and Sha Tin stations.

Starting from this month, the rail operator will install screen doors at Fanling, Fo Tan, Tai Wo, and Kowloon Tong stations, while installation at Lo Wu, University and Mong Kok East stations will begin in the fourth quarter this year.