Chief Executive visits emergency transport centre (with photos)

    The Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, today (June 21) visited the Transport Department's Emergency Transport Co-ordination Centre (ETCC) in Wan Chai to gain a greater understanding of how the department monitors public transport services and traffic conditions with advanced technology, as well as co-ordinating and responding to emergencies.

     Mr Tsang said that with the wet, typhoon season under way, traffic was sure to be affected. "I am pleased to note that the Transport Department is well prepared. Staff have been trained and duty officers have gone through sufficient exercises. The department has also established communication channels with various public transport operators and government departments for appropriate co-ordination action."

     Accompanied by the Commissioner for Transport, Mr Alan Wong, Mr Tsang also visited the Traffic Control Centre and Area Traffic Control Centre. Staff briefed Mr Tsang about making use of the traffic control and monitoring system in managing Hong Kong's roads and relieving traffic congestion.

     "The department's motto, 'Keep Hong Kong moving', is especially apt given that the city is the gateway to the Pan-Pearl River Delta region, which is undergoing rapid social and economic development. Highly efficient transport and traffic networks help maintain the long-term competitiveness of Hong Kong," Mr Tsang said.

     "I believe that colleagues of the Transport Department will continue to do their best and be professional in servicing Hong Kong people's daily transport needs under the principle of people-based governance."

     As the ETCC deals with about 2,000 incidents per year, the department is continually updating its technology to enhance efficiency and the standard of monitoring. In response to requests for more speedy and accurate information about transport services and traffic conditions, the department revamped its website in mid-2005 and now provides online access to information on special traffic arrangements, road diversions and new transport services, etc.

     Also, a blinking  "Special Traffic News" banner will be activated on the homepage when there are road closures or traffic diversions.

     Mr Tsang met with the frontline staff of the traffic control centre and employee representatives before concluding his visit. In sharing their experiences with the Chief Executive, the representatives said that they would continue to improve services to the public.

     "In view of people's rising expectations, the work of the Transport Department staff is demanding. I can see that every member of the department is making great efforts to face the challenges with professionalism, providing immediate traffic information to the public and keeping the traffic flowing smoothly day and night."

Ends/Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Issued at HKT 17:44