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The Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) today (September 29) appealed to people to keep venues clean and tidy while enjoying the National Day Fireworks Display on Sunday (October 1).
They are urged to take away their belongings and not to leave behind trash or newspapers.
"Offenders will be subject to a fixed penalty of $1,500," an LCSD spokesman said.
Measures have been stepped up to tackle littering, illegal hawking and vandalism of public property.
The LCSD, together with law enforcement teams of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department and the Police, will strengthen patrols in venues including the Hong Kong Cultural Centre (HKCC) Piazza, Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, Avenue of Stars and the UC Centenary Garden where large crowds are expected.
Arrangements will be made to display banners and to broadcast on-site announcements regarding safety and keep clean appeals to visitors before and after the fireworks display.
Additional departmental staff, security guards and cleaning staff will also be deployed at the venues.
As part of the community support, youth volunteers will be at the HKCC to help spread the message of care for the environment and assist in the clean-up operation immediately after the fireworks.
The spokesman also reminded people who intended to go to the Tsim Sha Tsui Waterfront areas that they should take special care of their safety in crowded places.
The elevated walkway of the Hong Kong City Hall will be closed from 6pm on Sunday, while City Hall High Block will be partially closed from 6pm. Only hirers and participants at City Hall High Block Recital Hall and Exhibition Gallery will be admitted. The Low Block will be opened to the public as usual.
Ends/Friday, September 29, 2006
Issued at HKT 12:34
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