ENG-2001 — Page 325

TRANSPORT

Local Craft

In 2001, 14 282 local craft including passenger vessels, cargo vessels, fishing vessels and pleasure vessels were licensed in Hong Kong to provide a variety of efficient and continuous services for the port. The Marine Department expects to bring in new legislation with a view to rationalising the licensing and management of these vessels.

Hydrographic Service

The Hydrographic Office of the Marine Department carries out hydrographic surveys and produces bilingual nautical charts and publications. Notices to Mariners for updating of charts are issued every two weeks. The office also provides real time tidal information at the Kwai Chung container terminals.

Port Planning and Development

The Planning and Development Branch of the Marine Department provides professional advice on port and marine projects, and co-ordinates all marine development works. These include the Container Terminal 9, Central and Wan Chai Reclamation, and developments in the Western District and Tseung Kwan O.

Code of Practice for Shipboard Container Handling

The Marine Department has completed the draft code of practice for providing safe working guidance to workers engaged in container handling operations in mid- stream, based on the recommendations of a consultancy study completed in September 1999. The code of practice provides guidance on such matters as managing safety at work, safety procedures for working on the top of containers and personal protective clothing and equipment. It will be implemented after consultation with the industry is completed.

Educational Seminars and Marine Safety Campaign

The Marine Department continues 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 there. 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.

Port Services and Facilities

Mainland and Macau Ferry Services

The Marine Department manages two cross-boundary ferry terminals: the China Ferry Terminal (CFT) and Macau Ferry Terminal (MFT). The CFT opens from 7 am to 10 pm daily and the MFT operates round-the-clock.

Immigration and Quarantine Services

A shipping agent may apply through radio for immigration and quarantine services, including advance clearance, for a ship. Such services are available 24 hours a day at the Western Quarantine and Immigration Anchorage and from 6 am to 6 pm at the

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