Proposed repair works for ASE to commence in early 2017
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The proposed works will include installation of precast concrete mattress units with a width of approximately 6 metres along a section of approximately 220 metres of the ASE. Each of the units will be lowered into position from a barge and will sink into the marine mud to a depth of around 20 to 40 millimetres (the sinking depth). In the event that the marine mud is particularly soft and the sinking depth is exceeded, the unit will be lifted off the sea-bed. A steel sea-bed bearing sheet will be installed on the sea-bed first and the unit will then be lowered on to the bearing sheet. The units will be connected together one by one by divers with short link steel chains after they are lowered into position.
The ASE is a submarine telecommunications cable system constructed in 2012, with a cable route running from Tseung Kwan O to the eastern boundary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region waters. It has been damaged several times by vessel anchors due to the relatively shallow depth at which a section of the ASE is buried at a depth of 0.5 to 1.5 metres as it passes over the Drainage Services Department sewer, compared with the remaining sections that are buried 5 metres below the sea-bed. The damage even caused termination of telecommunications and internet traffic along the cable on one occasion. Effective protection of the cable in the form of installation of precast concrete mattress units above the vulnerable section is therefore required, and will provide long-term protection from anchor damage and better telecommunications services for Hong Kong and other countries and regions.
The notice together with its related plan are posted near the site. The plan can also be seen at the following locations:
*Lands Department Survey and Mapping Office (23/F, North Point Government Offices, 333 Java Road, North Point, Hong Kong) (where copies can be purchased on order);
*Sai Kung Home Affairs Enquiry Centre of the Sai Kung District Office (G/F, Sai Kung Tseung Kwan O Government Complex, 38 Pui Shing Road, Hang Hau, Tseung Kwan O, New Territories); and
*Lands Department’s website (www.landsd.gov.hk) under Government Notices.
Any person who considers that he or she has an interest, right or easement in or over the foreshore and sea-bed involved may submit a written objection to the Director of Lands, 20/F, North Point Government Offices, 333 Java Road, North Point, Hong Kong within two months from the above-mentioned date, i.e. on or before December 7. The notice of such objection shall describe the interest, right or easement of the objector and the manner in which he or she will be allegedly affected.
Ends/Friday, October 7, 2016
Issued at HKT 11:00
Issued at HKT 11:00
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