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The Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) and relevant Government departments today (January 4) met with the representatives of LPG taxi and light bus drivers and owners to follow up on the LPG engine stalling problem.
Speaking after the meeting, an EMSD spokesman noted that a Task Force convened by the department would endeavour to identify the cause of the problem as soon as possible. The process will be open and transparent, and updated information will be disseminated to the trade and the general public once available.
During the course of investigation, EMSD will also take immediate action to closely monitor the situation of engine stalling of taxis and light buses, and will ensure the continuous supply of LPG at filling stations in Hong Kong.
The spokesman said,"Our prime objective is to ensure the smooth and safe operation of taxis and light buses in Hong Kong. To this end, EMSD has already enhanced the monitoring of the operations of all LPG supply companies, and will draw LPG samples from LPG dispensing nozzles at LPG filling stations for laboratory analysis to ensure the quality of LPG."
In addition to strengthening spot-checking, EMSD will also enhance the coordination with LPG supply companies to ensure the supply of LPG for vehicular use. EMSD noted that the LPG stock in Hong Kong is certainly adequate, although individual stations may not be timely replenished due to increase in demand. EMSD is aware of the situation and has immediately enhanced the coordination with LPG supply companies.
Moreover, EMSD has set up a 24-hour hotline (2333-3762) to receive complaints relating to LPG engine stalling from vehicle drivers or owners. All information received will be recorded for analysis.
As regards investigation, the Task Force will commence the LPG Testing Scheme as soon as possible. Vehicles under this scheme will be refuelled at designated LPG filling stations and be inspected at designated vehicle workshops on a weekly basis, lasting for two months. The Task Force will investigate the case thoroughly, during which the process will be transparent. Findings and results during the course of investigation will be released promptly in different stages.
The spokesman called on drivers and vehicle owners to arrange for maintenance of the LPG fuel system in accordance with vehicle manufacturerˇ¦s recommendation, such as cleaning of the vapourizer for every 40,000km or 4 months.
He said, "We hope drivers and vehicle owners will cooperate with us and make sure that the vapourizer is operating in a good condition. This will help the Task Force expedite the progress in identifying the cause of the problem.
"With the concerted efforts of all parties, we will strive to identify the cause of the problem as early as possible and take improvement measures accordingly."
Ends/Monday, January 4, 2010
Issued at HKT 22:30
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