ENG-1953 — Page 173

PUBLIC UTILITIES AND PUBLIC WORKS

tramcars are of the double-deck, single staircase type intended for single-ended working, the termini having turning circles. The gauge is 3′ 6′′ and the operating voltage is 500 volts direct

current.

A daily service of 118 cars is operated providing a car every two minutes or less in each direction. Through the city area, in the centre of the system, the minimum service provided is a car every forty seconds in each direction.

The total number of passengers carried during the year was 137 million and the total mileage run was nearly six million.

Fares are charged at a flat-rate for any distance over any route (the maximum route length being 63 miles) of 20 cents (3d.) 1st class, and 10 cents (11⁄2d.) 3rd class.

The company also issues monthly tickets, and concession fares are given to children, scholars and Service personnel.

The Peak Tramway, operated by the Peak Tramway Co., Ltd., was opened for traffic in May, 1888, and was then known as the Hong Kong High Level Tramway. With the lower terminus situated at the lower portion of Garden Road and the Peak terminus at Victoria Gap, this means of transport has provided, almost without interruption for over sixty years, a reliable funicular service. Until motor roads were opened in 1924, it was the only means of transport to the Peak. The cars are operated by a modern electric haulage plant, and incorporate safety features which make it possible for a car to come to a halt within eight feet on the steepest part of the track.

During 1950 and 1951, the company replaced its former wooden cars with new cars of improved design and all-metal construction, lighter and stronger than the old ones, and capable of carrying a greater number of passengers.

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