Traffic smooth on first school day

     Traffic conditions were mostly smooth and public transport services were generally adequate to meet demand this morning on the first school day today (September 3), the Transport Department said.
 
     The department's Emergency Transport Co-ordination Centre (ETCC) has been closely monitoring the traffic situation and public transport services since 6.30am today. Staff were deployed to monitor the traffic and transport situation on-site at various major public transport interchanges and school areas. They provided updated information to the ETCC for arranging public transport service enhancement or informing the Police for traffic regulation when necessary.
 
     "As in previous years, students are reminded to familiarise themselves with the public transport routes to be taken to school during the first few days of the new school term to determine the most suitable travel patterns," a department spokesman said.
 
     The department will continue to closely monitor the traffic situation and public transport services in the next few days when more schools begin to resume their normal school hours. Close liaison with major public transport operators and relevant government departments will also be maintained.
 
     The spokesman reminded students to allow more time for travel and pay attention to road safety. Those living on the outlying islands or attending schools on the outlying islands are advised to check in advance the ferry schedules, the vessel types to be used and journey times on their intended ferry trips. Meanwhile, in view of possible congestion in school areas, motorists should avoid driving to these areas.
 
     Drivers of nanny vans and school buses are also reminded to drive carefully, especially on steep roads, in narrow lanes or at locations where driving in reverse is necessary. Overloading is prohibited and they are not allowed to leave students unattended in the vehicles. An escort should be provided on board when serving kindergarten or primary school students.
 
     The road traffic, especially on major trunk roads and in some cross-harbour tunnels, is likely to become busier as compared with the situation in the summer holidays. Passenger demand for public transport services will also increase sharply. Members of the public are advised to allow more time for their trips during the morning peak hours.
 
     Members of the public should pay attention to the latest transport and traffic news on radio and television before leaving home. For enquiries, please call the department's hotline at 2804 2600 or the 1823 Call Centre.
 
     For enquiries on schedules of bus, ferry or railway services, please call the following hotlines or visit the websites of the major public transport operators: