I REFER to Mr P. Lok's letter headlined, ''No need for paint job'' (South China Morning Post, August 12).

To provide additional protection to the steelwork and to enhance the aesthetic quality of the flyover, the new railing on the flyover leading from Garden Road to Queensway will be painted with a colour scheme similar to the nearby flyovers and footbridges. The new coat of paint will last for about five years before repainting is necessary. Even when flaking paint is removed, due care will be taken not to damage the protective zinc coating.

HO SAU-PING, LUCY Senior Engineer/Highways Complaints, Highways Department