ENG-1983 — Page 107

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PRIMARY PRODUCTION

The Mines Division of the Labour Department enforces legislation and safety regula- tions relating to mining and explosives. It processes mining and prospecting applications; inspects mining and prospecting areas, stone quarries, blasting sites and explosives stores; and issues shortfirers' blasting certificates. The division also controls the possession, conveyance, storage, manufacture and use of explosives in Hong Kong including delivery of explosives from government depots to blasting sites. In addition, it manages government explosives depots that provide bulk storage facilities for imported explosives.

A tunnel excavation from Muk Wu to Tai Lam Chung as part of a project to increase the water supply from China commenced in October 1982 and continued during 1983. The average consumption of explosives for this project during the year was approximately 20 tonnes per month. The explosives sub-depot at Mount Butler Quarry, which was specially set up in October 1981, has continued to supply explosives to construction sites associated with the Mass Transit Railway Island Line project. Additional storage space was provided for some five tonnes of fireworks for a display in February to mark the Lunar New Year festivities. Approval was given for the continued importation and use in Hong Kong of Chinese-manufactured explosives and blasting accessories after storage and firing tests were undertaken by the Mines Division. The consumption of explosives during the year was 5 340 tonnes.

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