further improvements in the planned control of work schedules and less major repairs falling due in the period under review. Adequate motive power was made available at all times to cope with the new record volume of traffic which amounted to an increase of 34,856 locomotive kilometres over the previous year.
37. The maintenance cost of the diesel electric locomotives was $0.677 per km. compared with $0.678 per km. in the previous year.
38. Carriages and Wagons. All carriages and wagons were main- tained to an efficient state. In addition to routine maintenance and repair, 16 carriages and 4 wagons were overhauled and painted; 39 carriages and 10 wagons were given an intermediate examination and repair which comprised the machining of wheel tyres and the recondi- tioning of electrical equipment and running gears.
39. Breakdown Crane. The breakdown crane was overhauled and repainted.
40. Electrical Work. All electric lighting, power signals and other electrical equipment on the railway were maintained to good order. New power signals were installed at the University and Tai Po Kau Stations to replace the old mechanical signals.
41. Work Done for other Government Departments. A consider- able amount of work was completed for other Government Departments. The more important items included the manufacture of 86 iron castings, 104 bronze castings, 8 sets of phosphor-bronze strainers, 100 guide rails, 3 hot water cylinders, 2 winch buckets and the repair of 123 items of hospital equipment.
42. Statistics. The average consumption of diesel oil was 3.09 kg. per engine km. compared with 3.12 kg. per engine km. in the previous year. Statistical statements relating to the analysis of train and locomo- tive running, fuel oil running expenses, consumption of lubricants, the cost of repair to locomotives, carriages and wagons will be found in Appendices VI to IX while classifications of rolling stock are at Appendices X to XIII.
WAY AND STRUCTURES
43. Maintenance. The cost of maintenance of way and structures had risen considerably. The local maintenance contract rates in 1971-72 were 80% higher than those in the year before. The increase in cost
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