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New technology, such as satellite pictures, may be adopted to speed up detection of nature-intrusive activities in our countryside.
This was the message today from Secretary for Environment, Transport & Works Dr Sarah Liao, who said the move came in view of limited manpower to do the inspection.
Speaking on a radio talk show, Dr Liao said the Tung Chung Rural Committee has been asked to submit a proposal for reinstating Tung Chung Stream.
If it fails to do so, the Government will carry out the work and the committee will have to pay for the sum incurred.
Dr Liao said she is confident the stream can be restored. Nevertheless, it will take time for the habitat to be reinstated and for life to come back.
Measures considered to curb water pollution
On water pollution, Dr Liao said $14 million is spent a year to help farmers dispose of pig effluent. But there are still some irresponsible farmers pouring effluent into rivers.
To step up control and enforcement, the Government is exploring the feasibility of amending existing laws or licence conditions.
Turning to rail services, Dr Liao said the KCRC has been asked to investigate the recent East Rail service disruption and take appropriate measures.
KCRC should step up rail maintenance
"One of the (measures), in my opinion, is to step up maintenance since the East Rail is a comparatively old rail and so we must be more vigilant in our inspection and maintenance," she said.
On the West Rail opening, Dr Liao said that KCRC is conducting extra testing to ensure the reliability of the new rail and its safety so that all standards are met. She said she is confident the new rail will be commissioned safely and punctually.
The Transport Department will also activate its emergency transport control centre to keep a close watch on the West Rail's operation.
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