ENG-1999 — Page 310

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junctions and 25 CCTV cameras, while Sha Tin has 88 ATC junctions. The 19 CCTV cameras in Sha Tin were completed in July.

Expansion of the ATC and CCTV systems to Tai Po and North District was being planned to commence in 2001 for completion in 2003. This would cover 120 junctions with 30 CCTV cameras. Studies to introduce ATC and CCTV systems in Tuen Mun and Yuen Long were being conducted.

Use of Information Technology in Transport

Reliable and comprehensive transport information enables commuters to make an informed choice of route and mode of transport. Ready provision of reliable, up-to- date and accurate traffic information contributes towards efficient road use, better traffic flow, greater road safety and improved accessibility.

As part of the Interactive Government Services Directory which was launched on March 11, transport information including any major road closure and real-time CCTV pictures showing traffic conditions on major routes and airport transport routes, is made available to the public on the Internet.

The Transport Department commissioned a consultancy study in July 1998 to explore the feasibility of applying advanced technology to enhance the management of the Strategic Road Network (SRN). The study was completed in October 1999 and put forward a strategy for the provision, operation and management of traffic control and surveillance facilities on the SRN including a traveller information system.

In order to establish an integrated Transport Information System (TIS) with the assistance of modern technology, the department commissioned a consultancy study in August to formulate the requirements of such a system. As most of the transport data are geographically related, a Geographic Information System is the most suitable technology for storing, analysing and displaying transport information. It can integrate maps with databases, digital drawings and photographs for visual display and analysis. It will facilitate dissemination of transport information to the public through established distribution channels such as variable message panels on highways and the electronic mass media. The private sector may also develop related commercial products and services, one example being car navigation systems. The department plans to invite the private sector to participate in the development of the this (TIS) system, so as to speed up the implementation process. The study will be completed in early 2000.

Automatic Toll Collection

Automatic toll collection systems (called auto systems) were installed at the Cross- Harbour and Aberdeen Tunnels in August 1993, Lion Rock Tunnel in August 1994, Eastern Harbour Crossing in September 1995, Tate's Cairn Tunnel in May 1996, Western Harbour Crossing in April 1997, Shing Mun Tunnels and Tseung Kwan O Tunnel in October 1997, Tai Lam Tunnel in June 1998 and Lantau Link in July 1998. They allow motorists to drive through designated toll booths without stopping to pay toll. Since October 1998, the auto systems have been unified so that a subscriber needs only one tag to use all tunnels and toll roads fitted with the systems. In 1999, about 39 per cent of motorists used auto systems when passing through the tunnels and toll roads.