8
The Ma Wan Channel is considered to be a dangerous zone not only because of the strong currents and the professional skill required in negotiating a 90 degree turn but also due to the busy traffic in the area,
"My department is working closely with the Hong Kong Pilots Association to extend the usage of the channel by large vessels at night without compromising safety," Mr Dale said.
Recent moves included the setting up of a control station at Gemini Point in Tsuen Wan to provide on-the-spot regulatory actions in the area round the clock and the restructuring of marine pilot classes.
"Nowadays, shipowners tend to bring in larger and larger vessels. Besides the 292-metre Newport Bay we have in our port this week one of the world's largest ship capable of carrying 6 000 standard-size container boxes," he said.
With the opening of a new container terminal in Shekou, the volume of marine traffic at the already-congested Ma Chan channel is expected to increase substantially as it is the only deep water channel for cargo ships trading between the two places.
The ship started entering the Channel at 8 pm yesterday and completed the passage within 30 minutes.
"The success of the trial is due to the joint efforts of the Pilotage Advisory Committee, the Pilots Association, the shipowners and of course the hardwork and detailed planning of my staff," Mr Dale said.
Marine Pilot Cheung Hai-loi and co-pilot Lui Yan-hon volunteered for the operation.
To facilitate this special transit, the Marine Department deployed a hydrographic launch to provide real time tidal current information to the two pilots on board the vessel. A Senior Marine Officer also joined the crew on the bridge of the vessel as observer.
In addition three Marine Department launches were assigned to regulate traffic and to clear the passage for the ship.
"It is still too early to lift the night-time restriction for large vessel at this stage." Mr Dale said.
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.