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Inspection of trams
Following is a question by the Hon Chan Wing-chan and a reply by the Secretary for Transport, Mr Haider Barma, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):
Question:
Recently, a number of traffic accidents involving trams have cast doubts about the reliability of trams of the Hong Kong Tramways Limited (HK Tramways) and the quality of its tram drivers. It is learnt that the HK Tramways provides training for their drivers and conduct tests on their driving skill, ability to handle emergencies and knowledge of traffic rules. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
Reply:
(a)
(b)
Mr President,
whether the Government will consider introducing legislation requiring newly recruited tram drivers to be tested by the Transport Department on their driving skill so as to ensure that they are capable of handling emergencies, thereby protecting the safety of passengers and pedestrians; and
how does the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department operate the monitoring system for the inspection and maintenance of trams, and whether consideration will be given to introducing a spot-check system for the HK Tramways similar to the one being applied to the three franchised bus companies?
The occurrence of several tram accidents recently has understandably caused a degree of alarm. But, in perspective, the fact remains that tram accidents account for less than 1% of the annual number of accidents on our roads.
Section 38 (1) (e) of the Tramway Ordinance provides for the Governor- in- Council to make regulations for the licensing of tram drivers. However, no such regulations have been made. The Administration's view is that Hong Kong Tramways Ltd is in the best position to train and qualify its drivers. This approach is consistent with international practice for operators of transport modes running on fixed tracks.