TAC briefed on Tuen Mun Road improvement and school bus safety

At their meeting today (April 20), members of the Transport Advisory Committee (TAC) were briefed on the Administration's plan to proceed with the detailed design of the reconstruction and improvement of Tuen Mun Road.

Members noted that the existing road between Tsuen Wan and Sam Shing Hui had been in service for more than 20 years and was beyond economical repair. 

Reconstruction and improvement to this section of the road is needed to upgrade it to the current expressway standard as far as practicable to minimise repair works and traffic disruption and to curb the rising maintenance costs.

Mr Jeffrey Lam Kin-fung, the Chairman of TAC said, "The TAC supports the implementation of the project. Members note that the reconstruction and improvement works will further improve traffic flow and enhance road safety. We wish to see its early implementation. This is also in line with the recommendation of the Report on Enhancement of Highway Safety released in December 2003."

The detailed design of the reconstruction and improvement works of the road will start in August for completion in a year's time.

At the same meeting, Members were also briefed on proposed measures to enhance the safety of passengers on school transport vehicles. 

Although the safety record of school transport vehicles has been generally satisfactory, the Administration considers it important to find ways to further enhance safety. 

Apart from stepping up publicity on the safety of school transport vehicles, the Administration proposes to require newly registered school transport vehicles to be equipped with safer seats according to the Transport Department's specifications and to make provision of escorts compulsory for school public light buses with 16 seats or less that serve kindergartens.

"It is important to offer good protection to children on board school transport vehicles, and we welcome the Administration's proposals to further enhance their safety." said the TAC Chairman.

Ends/Tuesday, April 20, 2004