DCS chairs eighth meeting of Task Force on District Governance (with photos)
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Mr Cheuk said, "With the full implementation of the improved district governance structure, various policies and measures have been carried out in accordance with the overall strategies set by the Steering Committee, leading to concrete improvements in district facilities and environmental hygiene. The Task Force will continue to co-ordinate departments in optimising resources and deepening collaboration to advance people-centric measures and unite community efforts in building a better home."
The Steering Committee chaired by the Chief Secretary for Administration has formulated strategies for 12 district issues, including multiple measures to enhance the local environment and improve streetscapes to create a more comfortable and livable environment while boosting the city's appeal to tourists. The Task Force followed up at the meeting on the implementation progress and outcome of relevant initiatives, including:
1. Combating air-conditioner water dripping to improve community environment
The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) is adopting a multipronged approach from May to September 2025 to address air conditioner water-dripping nuisances at 30 blackspots which particularly affect commuters at bus stops, including public education and stringent enforcement. In respect of publicity and education, as of April 30, the FEHD distributed around 16 000 leaflets and posters across 495 buildings and housing estates, reminding residents to take proactive measures to reduce dripping-related disturbances. By May 15, the FEHD had inspected 306 private buildings and estates, and issued 180 statutory "Nuisance Notices" to owners/residents responsible for hygiene disturbances caused by dripping air conditioners, requiring them to abate the nuisance within a specified period.
2. Cleaning pedestrian walkways to improve city streets
Starting in February 2025, the FEHD launched cleaning operations at 81 selected locations across the territory, utilising mini street-washing vehicles equipped with pressure washer surface cleaners and high-pressure hot water cleaners to remove stubborn stains and moss. After three months, significant improvements were observed at these sites. The FEHD has since May expanded the operations to 80 additional locations with street cleanliness issues.
3. Strengthening thematic planting
To enrich urban landscapes and boost tourist appeal, relevant departments plan to plant more flowering trees across 11 new projects in 2025, creating visually appealing neighborhoods. Two beautification projects were completed in Q1 2025, including planting about 40 Cassia bakeriana along major pedestrian pathways at the Kai Tak Sports Park, and introducing over 300 ornamental trees, such as Liquidambar formosana, pink trumpet trees, jacaranda and Indian almond at Shing Fung Road Park in Kowloon City. The relevant departments will continue to implement the various beautification projects during the remainder of this year. These include planting flowering plants near various competition venues to enhance the surroundings in preparation for the 15th National Games in November; and adding decorative lights to trees in the piazza of the Hong Kong Cultural Centre to create a more vibrant night-time atmosphere.
4. Enhancing the community environment and strengthening local characteristics
The Highways Department (HyD) has undertaken renovation and beautification works for 36 footbridges and tunnels, with 26 structures already completed. The HyD has also identified four locations for streetscape enhancements, featuring installation of thematic manhole covers, replacement of pavement tiles, and large-scale aesthetic upgrades to lampposts, thereby reinforcing local characteristics and scenery.
The Task Force also reviewed at the meeting the arrangements for displaying publicity materials to celebrate the 28th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and received reports on the work of relevant departments on other eight key district issues (Note).
Mr Cheuk said, "This year marks the 28th anniversary of the return of Hong Kong to our motherland and the fifth anniversary of the promulgation and implementation of the Law of the People's Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. I urge all departments to unite, leverage the strengths of our enhanced district governance system, and jointly foster a vibrant festive atmosphere for celebrations and major events, deepening people's sense of patriotism."
Note: The eight key issues include: (1) expanding after-school care and enhancing support for parents; (2) caring for the elderly and enhancing community support; (3) fostering clean markets and mobilising the community to participate in anti-rodent work; (4) enhancing public order and combating crimes on all fronts; (5) improving pedestrian facilities and ensuring road safety; (6) improving the environment of public housing estates and creating comfortable homes; (7) caring for the elderly and promoting digital inclusion; and (8) Improving the waiting environment at public transport interchanges to enhance the travel experience.
Ends/Thursday, May 22, 2025
Issued at HKT 19:00
Issued at HKT 19:00
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