What is ERP? (電子道路收費系統)
A traffic management tool to tackle localised road traffic congestion
Based on the "user pays" principle (用者自付原則), charges are levied on vehicles using the roads in the charging areas during designated periods
Aims:
Rationalise traffic flow in targeted areas where severe traffic congestion occurs almost daily
The case in HK:
HK first conducted a pilot test on its the ERP system between 1983 and 1985 with positive results. However, public opposition against the move stalled its implementation
Central and its adjacent areas are the CBD (中心商務區) of HK but have experienced persistent traffic congestion ⇨ ERP is a suitable solution for those areas because there are different modes of public transport available for travelling to Central and its adjacent areas from all parts of HK
The Central-Wan Chai Bypass (中環灣仔繞道), when commissioned, will provide a free-of-charge alternative route for motorists whose origins and destinations are not in Central and its adjacent areas to bypass the charging area
Benefits👍
Reduced vehicular traffic, particularly during congested periods (peak hours)🕢
Reduced travel times⏳
Increased public transport use and higher car and taxi occupancy🚕
Reduced vehicle emissions and reduced exposure to traffic noise inside the charging zone
Limitations👎
The environmental conditions of other areas may witness some deterioration due to the overall redistribution of traffic💨
Raise social controversy(∵ Capturing images ⇨ possible invasion of privacy)🔓
Accuracy of information shown in the captured images needs to be verified by labour-intensive manual checking📸
Related concepts:
Solutions to transport problems
Effectiveness and feasibility of the solutions
Traffic management strategies
Possible questions that can be asked:
(DBQ/ Essay) Evaluate/ discuss whether ERP is an effective solution in solving traffic congestion in HK.