Over 500 green minibuses have had speed meters installed in the past two years, which has proven to be effective in raising safety, the Transport Department says, adding it will continue the move for all minibuses.

Speaking on a radio show today, Principal Transport Officer Cheung Jin-pang said the number of complaints on speeding after meter installation increased, which facilitated enforcement action by Police and self-regulation within the sector.

It proves that speed meters can enhance minibus safety, he said, adding the installation cost of $2,000-$3,000 is cost effective to owners and licensees in raising safety and passenger confidence.

Standards rising

Mr Cheung said with more new minibuses installed with seat-belts and powered by liquefied petroleum gas, safety will continue to rise. He said from 1999 to last year, there was a yearly average of 1,000 accidents involving minibuses, and only about 1.2% of them involved speeding.

On red light jumping, Mr Cheung said there are 28 cameras installed at 111 traffic accident blackspots in rotation, which is comparable to the international ratio of 25%. However, more cameras will be installed to strengthen enforcement and raise deterrence.

He said the department has offered tailor-made courses and advanced courses for on-the-job minibus drivers, on top of the general driving skills improvement course. More publicity will be mounted to encourage drivers to take the courses, he said, adding any suggestions to enhance minibus safety are welcomed.