A 75-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson after a fire broke out on Wednesday, severely damaging a noise barrier on a major road in Hong Kong’s southern New Territories and causing significant traffic disruptions.

The blaze started around 11 a.m. beneath a footbridge on Cheung Pei Shan Road, near Shek Kuk House at Shek Wai Kok Estate. It quickly spread to the noise barrier covering the westbound lanes of the road.

Initially, police reported no suspicious circumstances regarding the fire’s origin. However, after further investigation, the incident was reclassified as arson on Thursday.

The suspect, a Tsuen Wan resident, was arrested near the estate later that day. Authorities recovered three lighters and a cutter from the man during his apprehension.

The fire disrupted traffic on the key route for over 12 hours, affecting commuters and raising concerns about safety and road infrastructure. Investigations are ongoing to determine the motive behind the alleged act.