Deputy Chief Secretary Cheuk Wing-hing said during the eighth meeting of the Task Force on District Governance today that there have been concrete improvements in district facilities and environmental hygiene.

Chairing the meeting, Mr Cheuk said with the full implementation of the improved district governance structure, various policies and measures have been carried out in accordance with the overall strategies set by the Steering Committee on District Governance, leading to these improvements.

The steering committee chaired by the Chief Secretary has formulated strategies for 12 district issues, including multiple measures to enhance the local environment and improve streetscapes to create a more comfortable and livable environment while boosting the city's appeal to tourists. 

The task force followed up at the meeting on the implementation progress and outcome of relevant initiatives.

On combating air-conditioner water dripping, by May 15, the Food & Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) had inspected 306 private buildings and estates, and issued 180 statutory Nuisance Notices to owners or residents responsible for hygiene disturbances caused by dripping air conditioners, requiring them to abate the nuisance within a specified period.

As for cleaning pedestrian walkways, the FEHD has launched cleaning operations at 81 selected locations across the city to remove stubborn stains and moss since February. After three months, significant improvements were observed at these sites. The FEHD expanded the operations to 80 additional locations with street cleanliness issues from this month.

To enrich urban landscapes and boost tourist appeal, relevant departments plan to plant more flowering trees across 11 new projects set to be launched this year. Two beautification projects were completed in the first quarter, including planting about 40 Cassia bakeriana along major pedestrian pathways at the Kai Tak Sports Park, and introducing over 300 ornamental trees at Shing Fung Road Park in Kowloon City.

Other beautification projects include planting flowering plants near various competition venues to enhance the surroundings in preparation for the 15th National Games in November; and adding decorative lights to trees in the piazza of the Cultural Centre to create a more vibrant night-time atmosphere.

Separately, the Highways Department (HyD) has undertaken renovation and beautification works for 36 footbridges and tunnels, with 26 structures already completed.

The HyD has also identified four locations for streetscape enhancements, featuring installation of thematic manhole covers, replacement of pavement tiles, and large-scale aesthetic upgrades to lampposts.

As this year marks the 28th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to the motherland, the task force also reviewed at the meeting the arrangements for displaying publicity materials for the celebrations.

Mr Cheuk urged all departments to unite, leverage the strengths of the enhanced district governance system, and jointly foster a vibrant festive atmosphere for celebrations and major events, deepening people's sense of patriotism.