14 LAND, PUBLIC WORKS
AND ÚTILITIES
The Polluter Pays Principle was put into practice in Hong Kong with the introduc- tion of sewage charges on April 1, 1995. The funds from the sewage charges will be used to maintain and operate sewage collection and treatment facilities in order to achieve the objectives of water quality improvement in the territory.
Cross-border co-operation between the Hong Kong Government and the Shenzhen Municipal Government on flood prevention took another step forward in 1995 with the commencement of works for the first stage of the Shenzhen River Regula- tion Project. The project is important in alleviating flooding in the Northern New Territories and Shenzhen. The two governments have continued to work closely with the aim of implementing the second stage of this important project at the earliest possible date.
After building collapses between August and September 1994, the government announced an initiative to improve safety at construction sites. In 1995, a consultancy was commissioned to study the conditions of cantilevered structures and to prepare a code of practice for the safe demolition of buildings. A task force in the Buildings Department was set up to monitor safety measures at construction and demolition sites. Consideration was being given to strengthening the provisions in the Buildings Ordinance. Hand-dug caissons were banned except in special circumstances.
A major milestone in the development of a land information system was reached in the year with the use of digital maps. The Land Survey Ordinance was enacted in 1995 to require proper definition of boundaries by authorised land surveyors.
To promote public awareness of town planning and architecture in Hong Kong, an exhibition entitled "Hong Kong City of Vision" was held at several loca- tions, attracting more than 200 000 people. To create a stronger deterrent against unauthorised development in the New Territories, the maximum fine for such offences was substantially increased.
A computerised Public Works Management System was brought into operation in 1995 to help to ensure timely and efficient completion of capital works projects. Dedicated project management teams were set up in seven works departments to improve implementation of all major public works projects.
The government aims to complete the new airport at Chek Lap Kok by early 1998. The airport island has been substantially formed and the terminal building and associated airfield works are under construction. Roadworks from the new airport to Kowloon and the infrastructure for Tung Chung New Town are well advanced.
195