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Proposed Law Would Fine Engine Idlers as Hong Kong Pollution `Very High'
Hong Kong recorded “very high” air pollution at three roadside stations today, prompting an environmental advocacy group to demand the government move more quickly to address the problem.
The Air Pollution Index readings were 126 in Central district, 104 in Mong Kok and 101 in Causeway Bay as of 5 p.m. local time, according to the Environmental Protection Department website. Readings above 100 trigger a government warning for people with heart or lung illnesses to avoid prolonged stays in heavy traffic areas.
Hong Kong’s air pollution was the worst on record during the six months ended March. In response to a public outcry, the government introduced a bill proposing a ban on idling engines among other steps it is taking.
“Air pollution in Hong Kong is getting worse as roadside emissions are steadily growing,” Erica Chan, spokeswoman at the independent advocacy group Clean Air Network, said in a phone interview today. “It’s not solely an environmental concern, but also a public health issue.”
The last time Hong Kong’s Air Pollution Index breached the “very high” level was on June 13, according to the department. Singapore beat the city as the Asian city with the best quality of life as Hong Kong struggles with air pollution, according to a survey by Mercer Consulting in May.
Today’s readings were caused by trapped vehicle emissions in light winds and air quality is expected to “improve gradually” tomorrow, a spokesman at the environmental department said, declining to be identified because of internal policy.
The bill before Hong Kong’s Legislative Council proposes a HK$320 ($41) fine for drivers of parked cars, trucks and buses who leave their engines idling for more than three minutes, Secretary of the Environment Edward Yau said in April. The measure would help improve roadside air quality, the government says.
“Though the ban would not cut roadside emissions enormously, this policy could make individuals aware of their responsibility to contribute to air quality,” Chan said.
To contact the reporter on this story: Sophie Leung in Hong Kong at sleung59@bloomberg.net
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