**********************************************************
The Transport Advisory Committee (TAC) discussed today (June 21) the performance of franchised bus operation in 2011 and a proposed trial scheme for the new generation of parking meters.
The TAC Chairman, Mr Rimsky Yuen, said that TAC Members were briefed on the performance of franchised bus operation in 2011. Whilst there are areas in which the Transport Department would closely follow up, TAC Members noted that the overall performance of franchised bus operation in 2011 was generally satisfactory.
"The franchised bus operators have made improvements in a number of areas, including enhancing their fleet with more environmentally friendly vehicles and fixtures; strengthening the provision of passenger information through various means; and enhancing the safety of bus operation by retrofitting black boxes on buses and strengthening bus captains' training," Mr Yuen said.
"As franchised buses provide key transport services for the community, we urge the operators to attach top priority to ensuring service reliability. In anticipation of future challenges, they should also further enhance their operational efficiency, service quality and competitiveness," Mr Yuen added.
TAC Members were briefed on the Transport Department's proposal to conduct a trial scheme on the new generation of parking meters.
"The Transport Department's proposal was to conduct a trial scheme to assess the technical feasibility and public acceptance of the new functions and features to be incorporated in the new generation of parking meters. The proposal was welcomed by TAC Members," said Mr Yuen.
"Members noted that some of the new functions proposed to be tested include the capability of accepting multiple payment methods and wireless connection for automatic uploading of data. The TAC believed that the proposed trial scheme will enable the Transport Department to effectively assess whether the new functions are suitable for application in Hong Kong," added Mr Yuen.
TAC Members were also briefed on the progress of a three-month Stage 1 Public Engagement exercise for the "Our Future Railway" consultation document and the consultants' preliminary ideas on three major regional railway corridors.
"The TAC supported the Government to continue with the study to take forward the Review and Update of the Railway Development Strategy 2000.
"Members noted that the study would be conducted in two stages and the Government would take into account the views from different sectors of society with a view to mapping out a long-term railway development blueprint for Hong Kong that would be cost-effective and could meet the needs of the community," said Mr Yuen.
Ends/Thursday, June 21, 2012
Issued at HKT 19:10
NNNN
