Traffic lights not the answer on busy road
I refer to the letter by S. Kasumbein headlined 'Dangerous road' (South China Morning Post, January 26).
The Highways Department is improving the junction at Hiram's Highway and Ta Ho Tun Road.
The section of footpath at the east side of Hiram's Highway near Ta Ho Tun has been temporarily closed so the improvement work can go ahead. Pedestrians have been diverted to the footpath on the west side.
Regarding inadequate warning signs and insufficient measures to provide a safe detour for pedestrians, we will try and make improvements in this area. The project should be completed by April.
Your correspondent suggests that traffic lights be installed between Pak Sha Wan and Sai Kung fire station.
Hiram's Highway is operating close to capacity during morning peak hours. Traffic lights would exacerbate this problem.
However, in order to enhance road safety the Transport Department will explore the possibility of providing a cautionary crossing (such as a traffic island) or adding suitable warning signs along Hiram's Highway at appropriate locations to assist pedestrians wanting to cross the road.
K. M. BOK
for Commissioner for Transport
