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32.
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Ventilation inside markets in public housing estates
Following is a question by the Hon Law Cheung Kwok and a written reply by the Secretary for Housing, Mr Dominic Wong, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):
Question:
Will the Government inform this Council of:
(a)
(b)
the number of cases concerning poor ventilation inside markets in public housing estates which have been discussed by various District Boards in the past three years, and the major causes of poor ventilation in such cases; and
the measures that have been adopted to improve ventilation inside markets in public housing estates and the effects of such measures?
Answer:
Mr President,
Three cases concerning poor ventilation inside markets in public housing estates were discussed by District Boards in the past three years. These markets were designed to be naturally ventilated and the storage of cartons by operators on top of their stalls affected cross ventilation. The use of large refrigerators and air- conditioners by operators aggravated this problem.
The Housing Department took remedial measures, including the provision of electric fans, extraction fans and extraction ducts. Where technically feasible, and where the operators concerned were willing to pay the necessary expenses, central air conditioning was installed. These measures improved air circulation, removed offensive odours and lowered indoor temperatures.
The Housing Department has taken steps to improve ventilation in new markets. Privatised markets completed in recent years have been installed with central air-conditioning. From next year onwards, all newly completed markets (whether privatised or under HD management) will be provided with central air-conditioning.
End