Hong Kong authorities initiated clearance operations Wednesday on a government-owned plot in Sham Shui Po, ending a 20-year period of unofficial community use. The land, known as Mission Hill or Woh Chai Shan, was occupied by elderly residents who created a community space. Government contractors removed exercise equipment and other items as part of the operation. The clearance targets what authorities deem an unlawful occupation of public land. Residents expressed dismay at the loss of a cherished local gathering spot. The move raises questions about the balance between land use and community needs in densely populated Hong Kong. Further details on resident relocation or future land use plans remain unclear.