That came as the force began using the Transport Department’s existing traffic control and surveillance systems on Tuesday to cut down on potential street obstructions in the central business district.
The cameras will be used for recording and penalising traffic offenders at the intersections of Queen’s Road Central with Bonham Strand, Ice House Street, and Pedder Street, as well as at the intersection of Queen’s Road East with Wong Nai Chung Road.
Some people believe it is too early to make a definitive judgement on the pilot scheme, while others feel that its effectiveness is limited.
Jay, who lives nearby, said illegal parking appears to be the most pressing issue in the area.
Drivers parking in unauthorised spots often block buses, exacerbating traffic problems.
“You don’t even need a camera, you just need the threat of a camera,” Jay said.
“Just saying that there will be random check-ups during the day, and also maybe even specifying that there might be at least three random check-ups, even though people don’t know when they are going to happen, that will also change their behaviour.”
Ms Cheung, who works nearby, said it’s too early to assess the scheme’s effectiveness on the first day.
“Many vehicles are still parked illegally, and trucks are also loading and unloading goods,” she observed.
“The effectiveness [of addressing this issue] depends on how frequently the police conduct inspections and enforce the rules.”
Ms Lee, who also works in Central, believes the programme has limited effectiveness.
“Traffic is heavier during meal times and rush hours, but the impact of the measure has been fairly limited, not major,” she told RTHK.
