Hong Kong TAC discusses phasing out heavily polluting diesel commercial vehicles

The Hong Kong Transport Advisory Committee (TAC) was briefed on March 26, 2013, on the Administration’s more comprehensive and vigorous approach in optimizing bus routes to better meet passenger demand, enhance bus operation efficiency, reduce pressure on fare increase, alleviate traffic congestion, and reduce roadside emissions. This is a policy initiative announced in the policy address from January 2013.
“In view of the need for and benefits of rationalizing bus services from both transport and environmental perspectives, the TAC supports the government and franchised bus companies to pursue route rationalization measures with greater vigor and determination,” TAC Chairman Larry Kwok said.
TAC members were also briefed on the government’s proposal to phase out heavily polluting diesel commercial vehicles by an incentive/regulatory approach. The service life of newly registered diesel commercial vehicles would be set at 15 years as announced in the 2013 policy address, in order to improve roadside air quality and protect public health.
Members noted that there are about 86,000 pre-Euro IV diesel commercial vehicles in Hong Kong accounting for 66% of the diesel commercial vehicle fleet. These vehicles together emit about 90% of suspended particulates and 63% of nitrogen oxides from all diesel commercial vehicles.
(March 26, 2013)