ENG-1960 — Page 274

15

Communications

HONG KONG owes its very existence to its position on the China Coast, where it forms a focus of most of the communication routes in eastern Asia. Although in the course of years its old entrepôt and other commercial activities have been joined by new industries, the Colony is still closely dependent on efficient organization and control of its shipping, aircraft, rail and road transport, posts and telecommunications, and weather services.

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MARINE

The Port of Victoria is a natural harbour to which has been added every facility required by the modern shipowner. Ships are built, maintained and repaired. Skilful operation of up-to-date cargo handling equipment ensures the rapid turn round vital to the economic operation of ships, while adequate berths allow a continual flow of shipping to pass through the Port unhindered by delays. Crews are available for every shipboard department and they have a justifiable reputation for ability and hard work. Hong Kong is also the last port of call for many ships which have reached the end of their useful life and are sent here for demolition.

These many services are co-ordinated by the Director of Marine, who is responsible for administration, and by his Marine Depart- ment staff who co-operate closely with local commercial interests through various Port Committees.

The approaches to the harbour are provided with a compre- hensive system of navigational aids. First contact with the port may be made by using the radio beacon at Waglan Island where there is also a 21 mile light and diaphone fog signal. The more immediate approaches are covered by lights, fog signals and radar reflectors which enable ships to make port easily and safely in any weather conditions.

Depths of water at the Eastern Entrance of 36 feet and at the Western Entrance of 28 feet at Mean Low Water Springs mean