Chance to host Formula E electric car race missed as pollution soars
Chance to host prestigious Formula E event for electric vehicles is missed on same weekend that near-record levels of smog are recorded
As pollution levels approached the worst ever recorded in Hong Kong, the government has snubbed a bid to bring one of the world's most environmentally friendly and high-profile sporting events to the city.
Readings taken in Central and Mong Kok reached highs of 182 and 146 respectively.
Other stations in Hong Kong also recorded very high levels, and the Environmental Protection Department told people to limit their activities on busy streets as roadside air pollution was severe.
But the bad news did not end there. Formula E Holdings, promoter of the Formula E Championship, also made public its preliminary list of eight cities selected to host races next year - omitting Hong Kong.
The races will feature cars powered exclusively by electric energy. Hong Kong had been regarded by organisers as an ideal venue, but the government was not interested.
"Hong Kong will not be hosting a race next year. We can only hope the government will be more motivated in the future," said Alejandro Agag, chief executive of Formula E.