TAC briefed on franchised bus operation and parking demand

Members of the Transport Advisory Committee (TAC) at their meeting today (May 25) were briefed on the review conducted by franchised bus operators to enhance safety arrangements of bus operation.

Members noted there had been a general downward trend in the number of bus accidents per million-kilometres operated in the past few years and most of them were minor accidents. 

"Although no direct correlation can be identified between bus accident rates and the age, years of service and working hours of drivers, Transport Department and the franchised bus operators are considering a series of measures to further enhance bus safety, chairman of the TAC Mr Jeffery Lam said.

"These measures include the requirement of annual medical checks for drivers aged 50 or above, enhancement of driver training, introduction of guidelines on working schedules of drivers, installation of safety devices and measures to monitor driving behaviour, more stringent vehicle examination and promotion of drivers' and passengers' safety awareness.

Mr Lam added, "We urge the Government and the franchised bus operators to implement these measures as soon as possible to enhance safety."

Members were also briefed on the latest demand and supply situation of parking provisions in Hong Kong and the progress of implementing the recommendations of the Second Parking Demand Study to address parking-related problems. 

"We support the improvement measures adopted by the Government to address the parking needs of different categories of vehicles," Mr Lam said.

Members were also briefed on the findings of a trial scheme on the new autotoll signage and road marking arrangements at road tunnels and bridges. 

"The new arrangements help standardise the autotoll signage and road marking arrangements currently adopted by different tunnels and provide clearer information to motorists in advance.  We support the Government's proposal to extend them to all tolled roads and bridges to further enhance road safety at toll plazas," Mr Lam said.

Ends/Tuesday, May 25, 2004