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The Secretary for the Environment, Mr Edward Yau, today (March 26) visited Yau Tsim Mong District to see the latest progress of the district, and to listen to views of local residents about environmental protection.
He also took the opportunity to visit the Kowloon Southern Link (KSL) project which is a showcase of construction projects demonstrating good environmental initiatives.
Accompanied by the Yau Tsim Mong District Officer, Mrs Vicki Kwok, Mr Yau was briefed by MTR Corporation representatives on the KSL project which is a 3.8-kilometre passenger rail line connecting the West Rail Line's Nam Cheong Station with the East Rail Line's East Tsim Sha Tsui Station, with one intermediate station - West Kowloon.
Mr Yau was told that the MTRC was committed to keeping the community involved throughout the construction period. Community Liaison Groups had been established to enhance communication with the locals. Representatives from the residents/shop operators/hotels affected by the KSL construction works are invited to attend liaison group meetings for briefings on construction activities, construction programmes, work progress and major temporary traffic management schemes.
Mr Yau then toured the construction site of the KSL West Kowloon Station where he was briefed by Environmental Protection Department officers on measures taken to minimise construction impact on the neighbourhood.
The KSL project is scheduled for completion in 2009.
Mr Yau then visited the Social Centre for the Elderly of the International Women's League to better understand the services available for the elderly in the district. He met the elderly and learnt more about their need for the services.
Before concluding his visit, Mr Yau met YTM District Council members at Mong Kok Government Offices and sought their views on environmental protection and local affairs.
Ends/Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Issued at HKT 19:23
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