XN000022-1995-11-29 — Page 73

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Air Pollution Index readings

Following is a question by the Hon Leung Yiu-chung and a written reply by the Secretary for Planning, Environment and Lands, Mr Bowen Leung, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):

Question:

The Air Pollution Index (API) readings published by the Government have registered new highs in recent days, particularly those taken in Tuen Mun, Yuen Long, Sha Tin, Tai Po, Islands District and Southern District where the levels were forecast to reach as high as 100. In the light of this, the Government has publicly advised people with respiratory and heart problems to avoid outdoor activities. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

(a) of the reasons why the API readings are especially high in the above- mentioned districts:

(b) whether it has conducted a survey on the incidence of respiratory and heart diseases on those days when the API readings were particularly high, and whether it has studied the correlation between air pollution levels and the incidence of these diseases; and

(c) whether, apart from giving advice to the public, it has any other measures to assist people with respiratory and heart problems, especially those who need to work outdoors, on the days when the API readings in certain districts are exceptionally high, so as to reduce the chance of such diseases afflicting them; if not, what the reasons are?

Reply:

Mr President,

(a) The air pollution levels have recently increased generally throughout Hong Kong as a result of the dry weather which tends to cause fine dust and particulates to suspend in the air for a longer time. The areas mentioned in the Question have experienced slightly higher dust levels, and therefore higher API readings, because of the level of construction activities in these areas.