In response to media enquiries on the malfunction of the Air Purification System (APS) of the Central - Wan Chai Bypass (CWB), a spokesman for the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) today (April 9) responded as follows:

     According to the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (EIAO), the CWB is subject to the control of an Environment Permit (EP). The EP has specified the requirements for the handling mechanism and mitigation measures when the APS does not operate properly.

     With regard to this incident, the EPD has requested the Highways Department (HyD) to, in accordance with the statutory requirements, submit an investigation report, take appropriate mitigation measures and conduct air quality monitoring.

     The EPD received the investigation report submitted by the HyD yesterday (April 8), and is reviewing the report in detail in accordance with the procedures. The final investigation report will be uploaded to the websites of the HyD and the EPD for public viewing.

     According to preliminary analysis, the air quality monitoring data do not show any sign of abnormality and there is no significant difference between the data collected from other air quality monitoring stations of the EPD. The EPD will closely monitor the situation, as well as handle and follow up on the case in accordance with the statutory mechanism. Should there be evidence of non-compliance, the EPD will take appropriate action under the EIAO.

     Related provisions of the EP are available at the EPD's website at www.epd.gov.hk/eia/register/permit/latest/vep5112016.htm and www.epd.gov.hk/eia/register/english/permit/vep5112016/documents/aqmp/pdf/aqmp.pdf.

Ends/Tuesday, April 9, 2019
Issued at HKT 16:00

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