ENG-1999 — Page 316

TRANSPORT

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The movements of vessels participating in the VTS are regulated by the traffic centre through a computer-aided radar network, VHF communications and a database information system, which provides surveillance of over 95 per cent of Hong Kong waters. To cope with the continuous growth in the marine traffic and future demand, a complete upgrading of the VTS system is planned for early 2002.

Harbour Patrol and Local Control Stations

The Marine Department's Harbour Patrol Section (HPS) operates a fleet of 20 patrol launches and provides on-scene support to the Vessel Traffic Centre. The main duties of the patrol launches are law enforcement and maintenance of port and shipping safety, as well as responding to maritime emergencies.

In addition, a local traffic control station at Gemini Point, together with a dedicated patrol launch, monitors the traffic using the Ma Wan Channel on a 24- hour basis and provides escort services to large vessels as they pass through the area. To further enhance the traffic control functions, a new local traffic control station at the Kwai Chung Container Terminal 8 started operation in October.

Educational Seminars and Marine Safety Campaign

In 1999, the Marine Department continued to organise educational seminars and marine safety campaigns both in Hong Kong and in the Mainland, the latter in liaison with the authorities or shipping companies. Through these activities, shipmasters and vessel operators are regularly updated with the latest port developments and safety procedures. This forms a major part of the department's continuing programme to ensure safe and efficient operation of the port of Hong Kong.

Pilotage Service

Pilotage is compulsory in Hong Kong waters for vessels of 3 000 gross tonnes and above, oil tankers of 1 000 gross tonnes and above, and all gas carriers.

The Director of Marine is the authority regulating and monitoring the pilotage service through the assistance of the Pilotage Advisory Committee, with membership covering a wide spectrum of port users and shipping interests.

Pilotage service is provided through the Hong Kong Pilots Association, which is a private company. The service is available around the clock throughout the year.

Hydrographic Office

The Hydrographic Office carries out hydrographic surveys and produces bilingual nautical charts. The office also issues Notices to Mariners for updating of charts. Prototype electronic navigational charts have been developed and are being tested and calibrated.

Dangerous Goods

The Marine Department set up a dangerous goods inspection team in August to conduct random inspection on vessels to strengthen the control of dangerous goods carried by vessels in the port. A total of 450 vessels had been inspected by the end of the year.