Transport Department prepares for typhoon Dujuan

At 12 noon today (September 2), the Transport Department activated the Emergency Transport Coordination Centre to monitor the public transport service and road conditions for the coming of typhoon Dujuan.

The Centre will operate throughout the typhoon and will closely liaise with public transport operators, Government departments including the Hong Kong Observatory, the Police, and the Works Departments to gather information and to coordinate action when necessary.

The Transport Department has also arranged site observation staff to report back information to the Centre on the condition of roads and public transport services. The Centre will also disseminate traffic and transport related information through the media.

On public transport services, members of the public are advised to take note of the public announcement on bus service arrangements including franchised bus and the Lok Ma Chau - Huanggang yellow bus services during the typhoon as the level of services on some bus routes may vary according to demand, road situation or weather conditions. Passengers are reminded to check with the bus companies on the availability of services through their service hotlines.

Ferry services may be suspended at short notice irrespective of the issue of typhoon signal number 8. Ferry passengers are requested to listen to radio broadcasts for updated information.

Taxi drivers are reminded that excessive fares during typhoons are not allowed as it is an offence to charge taxi fares exceeding the scale of taxi fares stipulated in the Regulation.

All government tunnels will remain open throughout the typhoon. The Tsing Ma Bridge and the Kap Shui Mun Bridge however may be affected by the typhoon and may need to close the upper deck to tall vehicles when the wind is strong. The Ting Kau Bridge may also be closed to traffic if the wind is strong. Motorists are advised to pay attention to the possibility of these arrangements and listen to radio broadcasts.

The road conditions around Kwai Chung container port may be busier than usual. Motorists are advised to avoid this areas unless necessary.

The Transport Department's licensing offices, the vehicle examination centres and driving test centres will be closed upon the issuing of the number 8 signal. Members of the public are reminded to listen to radio broadcasts on the arrangements.

End/Tuesday, September 2, 2003