bituminous mixes from the Government quarries were investigated, cement was tested, concrete was analysed and test cubes broken to determine their crushing strength. Bricks, roofing felts, tars, asphalts and asphaltic fillers were examined, and certain other miscellaneous research was carried out, all of which resulted in the more economic use of building materials.
ROADS OFFICE
Chief Engineer (Acting), R. A. Mirams, A.M.I.C.E., A.M.I.W.E.
General
248. Progress in the improvement of the roads and bridges of the Colony was maintained, and in addition new feeder roads in the New Territories and new access roads in connexion with the development of Resettlement Areas were constructed. Other work included the maintenance of runways and hardstandings at Kai Tak Airport, the operation of two Government quarries, the organization and control of street lighting, and the maintenance of channels, culverts, roadside verges, cuttings, footpaths and street name plates. Close liaison was maintained with the Traffic Branch of the Police Department in connexion with the erection and maintenance of traffic signs, white lines, island refuges and safety rails for the control of vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
249. A considerable programme of road reconstruction and maintenance was carried out by local contractors, and a labour force of nearly 1,200 Chinese artisans and coolies was employed for the routine maintenance of roads, footpaths and culverts and for the operation of the two Government Quarries.
250. There was a steady increase in the number, weight and power of vehicles using the roads, resulting in increased difficulty and cost of maintaining road surfaces in good condition. This was particularly noticeable in suburban and rural districts where the original roads were designed for a small volume of light traffic and were not provided with the substantial foundations necessary for modern traffic. At the end of the year, 20,470 vehicles were using the 432 miles of road.
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