XN000022-1994-12-14 — Page 52

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Reply:

(c) whether the Government will consider abolishing all LRT precincts and allowing other modes of public transport to operate in these areas, so as to help to resolve the problem of inadequate LRT services?

Mr President,

Over the past two years, the number of passengers travelling on the Light Rail Transit (LRT) system has increased from about 267,000 to 347,000 a day or by about 30%. During the same period, the number of Light Rail Vehicles (LRVs) in service has correspondingly increased from 70 to 100, or, in terms of daily minimum carrying capacity by 32%, from 378,000 to 500,000. This demonstrates that the LRT system is overall able to cope with passenger demand. Perhaps, the Hon Zachary Wong's concern relates more to peak hour demand. Like all other public transport operators, the LRT faces demand surges during rush hours, especially during the morning rush. At this time some passengers may have to wait, but for no more than 10 minutes, to board an LRV. This particular problem seems to be most acute at Tin Shui Wai.

To cope with the population build-up at Tin Shui Wai, the number of LRVs deployed has been increased from nine vehicles in March 1993 to 26 at present. In addition, there are firm plans to augment these services by two additional LRVs in March next year. As an interim measure, the KCRC has commissioned two special bus services to Tuen Mun Ferry Pier, one from Tin Shui Wai and the other from Long Ping, to supplement the LRT services.

The KCRC is currently reviewing overall LRT service requirements, particularly the need to purchase new LRVs to meet increasing passenger demand. We expect the Corporation to make a decision in early 1995.

Since June 1, 1993, franchised bus restrictions within LRT precincts, or more accurately the Transit Service Area (TSA), have been lifted. In effect, the LRT has to compete with other modes of public transport such as franchised bus services, public light buses and taxis. We will continue to monitor public transport services closely and, where necessary, arrange for additional bus services, green minibus services and residential coaches in the TSA.

End/Wednesday, December 14, 1994