Technical problems

I refer to the letter headlined 'Ridiculous restriction should be scrapped' (South China Morning Post, April 12), regarding motorcycles and Autotoll tags.

Because motorbikes are small an Autotoll tag could not activate the roadside equipment at a toll-booth and so the tag could not be read in a reliable manner.

However, we have made further efforts to examine the feasibility of motorbikes using Autotoll. As recently as April 26, we undertook a further trial at Tseung Kwan O Tunnel. Unfortunately, it again showed that the Autotoll equipment could not detect the bikes under the following conditions:

When they travelled through the toll-booth at speeds exceeding 40km/h.

When they travelled close to another vehicle, or in groups.

As the present equipment was designed for motor vehicles, it has proved difficult to adapt so motorbikes can use it.

The service provider, Autotoll Limited, has assured us it is keen to expand its service to motorcycles.

It will continue to explore all technically feasible solutions to upgrade its facilities for its customers. The Transport Department will continue to discuss this matter with Autotoll and explore the feasibility of introducing suitable technology.

W. H. LEUNG

for Commissioner for Transport