TAC briefed on legislative amendments for alternative means of emergency exit for light buses and upgrading of Yung Shue Wan Ferry Pier

The following is issued on behalf of the Transport Advisory Committee:

     The Transport Advisory Committee (TAC) was briefed today (February 23) on the proposed legislative amendments to introduce alternative means of emergency exit for light buses, as well as the progress of the upgrading of Yung Shue Wan Ferry Pier.

     According to the present legislation in Hong Kong, emergency doors are the only acceptable means of escape in light buses. With the advancement of technology in the automobile industry, a number of jurisdictions such as the European Union and Mainland China have adopted, in addition to emergency doors, various alternative escape means for light buses, including emergency windows and escape hatches.

     The Transport Department conducted earlier a consultancy study on the emergency exits of light buses and concluded that, with the use of the above alternative means of emergency exit in light buses, passenger safety during emergency situations would be equally upheld.

     The Government thus proposes amending the existing legislation to allow the use of the driver's door, an emergency window and an escape hatch together as alternative means of emergency exit, apart from the emergency door. It is expected that the amendments will take effect in mid-2021 at the earliest.

     The TAC Chairman, Professor Stephen Cheung said, "Members welcome the legislative proposal. Allowing alternative means of emergency exit for light buses would provide more flexibility in the design of the vehicles, such that manufacturers could adopt other means of emergency escape applicable to light buses to cater for the Hong Kong market. This will facilitate the introduction of more vehicle models into Hong Kong, thereby offering more choices for the transport trades."

     To enhance ancillary facilities for public transport, the Government has identified Yung Shue Wan Ferry Pier as a pilot project to enhance its design and facilities, with a view to providing ferry passengers with a better waiting environment. The improvement works are being carried out in phases and some new facilities including toilet facilities and a baby-care room have been put in use. The whole project is expected to be completed by end-2021.

     Professor Cheung said, "Members noted the latest updates on the improvement works for Yung Shue Wan Ferry Pier, and welcomed the Government's efforts to enhance facilities and introduce new design for ferry piers in order to improve the passenger experience. Members also offered views on design standards and facilities for future ferry piers."