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Transport
Intelligent Transport Systems
Real-time traffic data (including closed circuit television (CCTV) traffic snapshot images, cross- harbour journey times, traffic speed maps, and special traffic news) can be downloaded by the public for free through the government Data.One portal. The 'Hong Kong eTransport' website and mobile applications were enhanced in 2013, making it easier for the public to search for public transport information. Since the mobile application of 'Hong Kong eRouting' was launched in early 2013, the public can now search with mobile phones and tablets for driving routes and obtain real-time traffic information any time and anywhere.
As at the end of 2013, there were 668 CCTV cameras installed at busy traffic spots across the territory to monitor traffic conditions so that drivers can be alerted to avoid adverse traffic conditions as soon as possible. Snapshot images from CCTV cameras at 180 strategic locations are available to the public online and on mobile devices.
A computerised Area Traffic Control (ATC) system connected to the traffic signalling system in the urban areas and in the new towns at Tsuen Wan, Kwai Tsing, Sha Tin, Ma On Shan, Tai Po, North District, Tuen Mun, Yuen Long and Tseung Kwan O enables better traffic control in response to changing road conditions. At year-end, 1,858 traffic signals were in operation at road junctions, 1,761 of which were linked to the ATC system. The remaining junctions will be linked to the ATC system progressively. To save costs and the environment, all conventional traffic signals on public roads have been replaced with light emitting diode traffic signals.
Traffic control and surveillance (TCS) facilities, such as CCTV, emergency telephones and lane signals, are provided in all tunnels and at the Tsing Ma Control Area, the Tsing Sha Control Area and the Kong Sham Western Highway. Additional TCS facilities such as variable message signs, variable speed limit signs and automatic incident detection systems, were installed, or will be installed in some tunnels.
Digital red light cameras are in operation at 155 signalised junctions throughout the territory to combat red light jumping, and new red light cameras will be installed at another 40 junctions by 2015. The Speed Enforcement Camera System was expanded in 2012. At present, there are 20 digital camera units operating in 120 camera housings on a rotational basis.
Five speed map panels have been in operation in the New Territories since January 2013 to advise motorists on the congestion level of alternative routes and to provide information on the estimated journey time.
A Traffic and Incident Management System is being developed to improve efficiency and effectiveness in managing traffic and transport incidents and in disseminating relevant information to the public. The project is scheduled for completion in 2015.
Automatic Toll Collection
Except the Discovery Bay Tunnel Link, all tolled tunnels and the Lantau Link have automatic toll collection (autotoll) systems, allowing motorists with autotoll tags on their vehicles to drive through designated toll booths without having to stop to pay. About 48 per cent of motorists used autotoll when driving through the tolled tunnels and tolled roads in 2013.
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