The central part of Victoria Harbour will be closed to marine traffic on January 30 from 7pm to 9pm for the Lunar New Year fireworks display, the Marine Department says.

The fireworks will be launched from three barges mid-stream off Wan Chai, starting from 8pm. The surrounding waters will be closed from 2pm to 11pm to all traffic, except craft directly involved in the fireworks display, Government launches, and other authorised vessels.

From 7pm to 9pm, the traffic ban will be enlarged to cover all the central harbour. Vessels, other than the excepted vessels, will be prohibited from entering or remaining in the restricted area.

To ensure orderly disembarkation of passengers after the fireworks display, special areas will be set up at Queen's Pier and Kowloon Public Pier from about 8.10pm.

Small vessels, in particular those with no decking or less than five metres in length, are advised not to proceed into or remain in the central harbour area during the event.

Public piers closed

All public piers and landing steps within the restricted area will be closed from 7pm to 9pm. Small craft are advised to make use of other public landing facilities during the closure period.

Emergency assistance can be sought from the Marine Department through VHF radio on channel 16 (call sign "Hong Kong Rescue"), by dialling 2803 6240, 2803 6241 or 999, or by issuing distress signals.

In case of bad weather, the fireworks display may be postponed to January 31, starting at the same time with the same traffic arrangements as set out above.