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In recent years, a large amount of foam boxes was piled up outside Cheung Sha Wan Wholesale Vegetable Market, occupying both pavement and traffic lane on Lai Chi Kok Road. The problem inflicted serious obstruction and imminent danger to pedestrians and road users, threatening public safety. Since 2018, a total of four fire cases occurred at the above location, in which, one medium good vehicle was burnt and damaged. The fire was solely caused by unfinished cigarette butts or sparks that had ignited piles of foam box. The issue aroused grave public interest and concern.
As such, Cheung Sha Wan Division (CSWDIV) has adopted a three-pronged approach, in order to target foam box owners, truck drivers, as well as to liaise with relevant government departments.
Given that public safety is a top priority, CSWDIV has taken stringent enforcement actions with the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department between March and May. Recyclers deliberately placed foam boxes on the road were verbally warned and summonsed. Foam boxes causing obstruction at the location were immediately removed and vehicles illegally parked in the vicinity would be towed away. Simultaneously, consideration and understanding were given to the operational needs of the recycling industry. Hence, CSWDIV actively liaised with the concerned recyclers, vegetable wholesalers and relevant government departments, not only to find out the best viable option, but also to strike a balance between public safety and business operation.
The problem could hardly be resolved without the concerted effort of all government departments, community stakeholders and road users. Sham Shui Po District (SSPODIST) will continue to maintain community safety through effective enforcement action and community engagement.
