TD's statement on bus incident report

The Transport Department (TD) has studied the report submitted by New World First Bus (NWFB) on the incident happened on December 29, 2000.

The report stated that NWFB had sought advice from the body manufacturer and conducted a fleet check, and concluded that there is no obvious deficiency in vehicle design, construction and maintenance.

The report also stated that three passengers had informed NWFB that two teenagers were playing noisily at the back of the bus upper deck before the incident occurred.

A spokesman for the Department said as the incident was currently under Police investigation, TD had no comment on the cause of the incident for the time being.

"However, TD agreed that gasket glazing is a well-proved safe method widely adopted overseas. TD will support NWFB to strengthen the inspection of the bus windows during their routine maintenance, and strengthen the inspection of bus windows of all operators during annual inspections as well as spot checks," the spokesman said.

"TD will also liaise with bus companies and bus body manufacturers regarding possible improvements of the design of glass windows for prevention of the recurrence of a similar case."

End/Tuesday, January 16, 2001