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Public landing steps 1, 2, 3 and 4 at Kowloon Public Pier will be closed to marine traffic from 1pm to 9pm on Friday and Saturday (December 23 and 24) and on Saturday (December 31) to prepare for pyrotechnic displays for "A Symphony of Lights" show.
Owners, operators, coxswains and persons-in-charge of vessels are advised to use alternative landing facilities during the period of pier closure.
To mark the launch of Phase II of "A Symphony of Lights", the Hong Kong Tourism Board will organise a series of pyrotechnic displays within a designated water area off the Avenue of Stars and Tsim Sha Tsui promenade from 8pm to 8.13pm on December 23, 24 and 31, 2005.
A Marine Department spokesman today (December 21) said that two barges and four pontoons together with four guard boats would be stationed within the designated water area from 1pm to 9pm on the three days.
"A number of patrol launches of the Marine Department and Marine Police will be deployed in the vicinity to regulate marine traffic surrounding the designated water area."
Masters, coxswains and persons-in-charge of excursion ferries and spectator vessels gathering in the Victoria Harbour for viewing the launching of the new phase of the "Symphony of Lights" on December 23, 24 and 31 are advised to keep well clear of the designated water area and ferry piers in the vicinity as well as maintaining a proper lookout at all times.
Before setting out, they should ensure their passengers know how to use and where to find life-saving appliances; that all children on board wear lifejackets at all times; and a passenger list is prepared in case of emergency. The carrying capacity of the vessels must not be exceeded.
Vessels proceeding through the Central Harbour during the "Symphony of Lights" show should navigate with extreme caution as there may be large numbers of passenger-carrying craft in the vicinity of the Central Fairway and Hung Hom Fairway.
Emergency assistance can be sought from the Marine Department through VHF radio on channel 16 (call sign "Hong Kong Rescue"); from Marine Regional Command and Control Centre by dialing 2803 6240, 2803 6241 or 999; or by issuing distress signals.
For details of marine traffic arrangements, please read Marine Department Notice No. 207 of 2005 at http://www.mardep.gov.hk.
Ends/Wednesday, December 21, 2005
Issued at HKT 15:52
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