Cable-car closure won't hurt tourism

February 08, 2012

The two-month closure of the Ngong Ping 360 cable-car system will have no long-term impact on tourism.
 
Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Gregory So gave the assurance in response to questions in the Legislative Council today.
 
The service suspension was ordered after the system broke down on January 25, stranding passengers for nearly two hours. The operator has closed the system for repairs and safety upgrades, which the Electrical & Mechanical Services Department is overseeing. It is due to reopen in April.
 
Mr So said: "The thorough investigation and tests, complete replacement of all related parts, and improvements to contingency and communication arrangements implemented in the aftermath of the incident, all demonstrate the management company's commitment to maintaining service safety and reliability.
 
"It is doing all it can to ensure the reliability of the cable-car system before the resumption of operations. We consider the Ngong Ping 360 incident will not cause any long-term impact on tourism. According to the EMSD's assessment, the design of the ropeway conforms to international safety standards and practices."