ENG-1997 — Page 304

TRANSPORT

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enabled direct public participation in advising the Transport Department of customer' requirements and in gauging public opinion on services provided.

Road Safety

In 1997, there were 14 776 traffic accidents involving injuries, of which 229 were fatal and 3 154 serious. This was an increase of 2.6 per cent compared with the 14 397 accidents in 1996, of which 252 were fatal and 3 084 serious. In-depth investigations were carried out at 200 traffic accident blackspots to identify common accident causes. Remedial accident prevention measures were recommended at 147 of these locations.

Accident records are regularly updated, using the microcomputer-based traffic accident data system installed in 1991. The updated accident database provides a basis for traffic accident analysis and road safety strategy formulation. (Accident statistics are at Appendix 45.)

Thirty red-light camera systems were installed at signalised road junctions in the territory to deter motorists from disobeying traffic signals. Additional red light camera systems are being planned for 18 road junctions in 1998. Installation works have begun on a speed-enforcement camera trial system on a 15-kilometre section of the Tolo Highway and Fanling Highway to deter speeding activities on major trunk roads. The system will come into operation in late-1998.

The seat-belt legislation has been extended to bus drivers. From July 1, 1997, all new buses must be fitted with seat-belts for the driver's seat. Bus drivers are required to wear seat-belts if fitted. A grace period of five years is granted to buses registered before July 1, 1997.

Road safety campaigns continue to play an important role in reducing traffic accidents. The major theme in 1997, as in 1996, was 'pedestrian safety'. Radio and television announcements were broadcast throughout the year on pedestrian safety, drink-driving and wearing rear seat-belts. Leaflets on the safe loading of vehicles, airbags, cycling safety and the road crossing code were among other items promoting road safety.

At year's end, 247 student road safety patrol teams of the Road Safety Association. had been formed. There were also 1 519 school staff crossing patrols serving in 309 schools to ensure children's safety on their way to and from school. The Road Safety Council, an advisory body, continues to co-ordinate all road safety matters in the territory.

To improve school bus safety, new measures were introduced in 1997. These included a more eye-catching colour scheme for newly registered school buses and the provision of an escort on large school buses carrying primary and kindergarten pupils.

Public Transport

Rail, ferry, bus and other transport services offer Hong Kong commuters a good range of choices at reasonable fares and different levels of comfort, speed and convenience. In September 1997, the major public transport operators launched a contactless card system, the Octopus, which uses smart card technology for fare payment.