Non-franchised bus and nanny van drivers to act against virus

The Commissioner for Transport, Mr Robert Footman, today (April 1) kicked off a cleansing campaign for the non-franchised bus and school private light bus (nanny van) operators and drivers.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Mr Footman said that as pointed out by the Chief Executive a few days ago, we must all play our part in the fight against atypical pneumonia virus. "Today, friends in the non-franchised bus and school private light bus trade have demonstrated their commitment to the community-wide effort," he said.

Mr Footman advised drivers of non-franchised buses and school private light buses to:

	wear masks, as they served many passengers;
	open the windows a bit if the windows could be opened to ensure proper ventilation. Buses carrying young students would have to pay more attention if windows were opened;
	clean bus compartments daily;
	be considerate to passengers who show possible symptoms of atypical pneumonia.

Appealing to all frontline drivers to follow the guidelines and to ensure a hygienic vehicle environment, he reminded passengers to play their part by opening their windows a bit.

He added that support from the transport sector would help Hong Kong beat the disease.

A health talk will be held tomorrow (April 2) at City Hall for public transport sector operators.

End/Tuesday, April 1, 2003