The Clean Air Network, a green group, welcomes the electronic road pricing scheme, believing a user-pay system will reduce traffic congestion and pollution, in concert with programs like the planned Des Voeux Road Central Tram and Pedestrian Precinct.

Central is one of the most polluted districts in Hong Kong. A study by Friends of the Earth, in collaboration with the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, measuring levels of PM2.5 on Des Voeux Road Central between Western Market and Chater Garden, showed particulate matter readings more than double the World Health Organization's maximum limit (51ug/m3 from 7 pm to 8 pm versus the WHO limit of 25ug/m3), between April 2014 and March 2015.

The higher readings during the rush-hour from 6 pm to 8 pm were exacerbated by traffic congestion, of which private vehicles were the main cause.

Private vehicles block bus stops, sit on tram tracks, and slow traffic flows. Buses making their way through those conditions at lowered speeds also produce higher tailpipe emissions, making roadside air quality even worse.

Clean Air Network CEO Kwong Sum-yin says, "Demand-side transportation management is the world trend. To inhibit private car growth, we need to make that a less attractive option. Electronic road pricing is one of the measures that proven effective elsewhere."

(HK Edition 01/07/2016 page10)