Weekend protests in Hong Kong continue to spill over to weekdays. Protesters left a lot bricks and other objects on the streets, which paralyzed the traffic. But some residents volunteered to help to make a difference at their city.
Some volunteers routinely gather ahead of the morning rush hour to clear roadblocks and allow cars and buses to drive though.
"I ask many friends; they are everywhere in the city this morning to help clean the road. Many Hong Kong residents are heartbroken when they see roads blocked and car tires blown by sharp objects. It just looks like a disaster," said one volunteer.
A protester setting up barricades on the street during a protest in Hong Kong. /CGTN Photo
Media outlets have reported several cases where local volunteers have been attacked by protesters. A 70-year-old man died Wednesday after he was hit on the head by a brick. The brick was reportedly thrown at the man when he was trying to clear the road.
"The rioters should check their consciences. I hope they won't attack those involved in clearing the roadblocks. Everyone needs a quiet living environment. If you can't keep the bottom line, how can you talk about politics? I'm just an ordinary resident. I don't know politics, I just start from my heart," said another volunteer.
But as the weekend approaches, more rounds of demonstrations may once again destroy public facilities. The volunteers said they'll stay committed to their work.
Two senior residents are clearing a road of bricks and other objects in Hong Kong. /CGTN Photo
"We want the Hong Kong people to know that resuming traffic is important. But in addition to that, they should know that every single person is responsible for Hong Kong's stability," said Cheung Kwok-kwan, a Legislative Council member who was helping others clean up the blockades.
In this way, many volunteers have voiced their opposition to vandalism through action, which is a silent confrontation with rioters.
(Wang Cong and Li Zhiqiang also contributed to the story.)