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Members of the Transport Advisory Committee (TAC) were briefed on the methodology for and the findings of the studies on enhancement of bridge parapets and roadside barriers at its meeting today (February 20).
The Highways Department has conducted full-scale impact tests and computer simulation analysis on the enhanced designs of bridge parapets and roadside barriers for the containment of double-decked buses. The results of the tests provide useful data for the development of sophisticated computer models to simulate various impact situations.
"We are delighted to see that using the calibrated computer models, the enhanced designs of bridge parapets and roadside barriers are proven to be adequate in preventing vehicles from penetrating through or passing over them," said Ms Teresa Cheng, Chairman of the TAC.
While appreciating that bridge parapets and roadside barriers can only provide a passive line of defence to reduce the severity of accidents rather than preventing traffic accidents, Ms Cheng cautioned that no matter how strong bridge parapets and roadside barriers could be, driving behaviour was the most important factor in enhancing road safety. The TAC thus called for the public's co-operation in adopting proper driving behaviour.
On containment level standards for bridge parapets and roadside barriers, the Government, in collaboration with the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, has conducted a comprehensive review of the containment level standards and recommended standards suitable for use in Hong Kong. Ms Cheng believes the recommended standard will provide a useful guideline for the construction of highways in the future.
TAC members were also updated on the progress of the works on strengthening bridge parapets and roadside barriers at the 39 priority locations identified by the Tuen Mun Road Traffic Incident Independent Expert Panel (IEP). All the strengthening works were completed by January 2006.
The TAC was appreciative of the Government's efforts in implementing the enhancement works that included strengthening of existing three-rail metal parapets by addition of intermediate posts and top rail, strengthening existing concrete parapets by addition of two strong rails and posts, and replacing the existing parapets with four-rail parapets and providing a row of three-beam barriers in front of parapets where space was available.
The Government will closely monitor worldwide developments on the design of bridge parapets and roadside barriers, including multiple containment bridge parapets and roadside barriers for use in Hong Kong as appropriate.
At the meeting, members were also briefed on the existing measures to combat drink driving and use of hand-held mobile phone while driving.
Members noted that the Government had been taking active steps to combat these two inappropriate driving practices through legislation and enforcement, as well as publicity and education.
"Driving attitudes and behaviour have the greatest bearing on road safety. It is important for the Government to monitor accident statistics, review the effectiveness of legislation, carry out continuous enforcement action, and launch further education and publicity initiatives to combat these inappropriate driving practices," the TAC Chairman said.
Ends/Monday, February 20, 2006
Issued at HKT 18:58
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