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In response to media enquiries related to the signing of an agreement today (April 7) by Wharf Transport Investments Limited, a subsidiary of The Wharf (Holdings) Limited, and Veolia Transport China Limited to form a partnership to operate Hong Kong Tramways, a Transport and Housing Bureau spokesman said that this was a commercial transaction between the companies concerned. The Tramways will continue to be subject to various provisions in the Tramway Ordinance in providing its tram service to the people of Hong Kong.
ˇ§Tramways has been providing a long-standing tram service for the people of Hong Kong. It plays a significant role in our public transport system and forms part of Hong Kong's history and culture. The Transport and Housing Bureau has stressed to Wharf and Veolia the importance of preserving the tradition of the tram service, including the overall outlook and design of the tram cars. Veolia has assured us that it is fully committed to preserving the trams in Hong Kong recognising them as a unique piece of cultural heritage. It will also thoroughly examine and carefully take into account the views of passengers and other stakeholders in the community before introducing any improvements to the system in the future,ˇ¨ the spokesman said.
The departments concerned, including Transport Department, Electrical and Mechanical Services Department and Highways Department, will closely monitor the service provided by Tramways, and will maintain close liaison with Tramways to ensure the continued smooth operation of the tram service.
Ends/Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Issued at HKT 16:49
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