Roadside air quality has improved since the Government launched vehicle emission controls in recent years, the Environmental Protection Department says.

In response to media enquiries on Public Accounts Committee Report No.44, which covers diesel emissions, the department said it will consider the committee's recommendations in detail and take follow-up action.

It said between 1999 and 2004 the measures have reduced roadside respirable suspended particulates by 9%. The improvement came despite a rise in respirable suspended particulate levels at general air quality stations by 15%, due to deterioration of general air quality in the Pearl River Delta Region.

The department said it will continue efforts to reduce vehicle emissions and will work closely with Guangdong to improve regional air quality through implementing a Regional Air Quality Management Plan.