Transportation will only be considered if absolutely necessary, for example for visitors who are physically challenged.

As you probably know, one letter appeared in today's (Saturday, 16 Feb 2008) SCMP. While we will be writing to SCMP to clarify, I wish to solicit your support in putting the record straight on your website, maybe in a more prominent position. Some residents have copied us their objections to the Lands Department, and after hearing our reply, are satisfied with our clarification.

I'm sorry that our application has created such misunderstanding but please be assured that there is no question of HK Electric running a "minibus service" to Lamma Winds. What we are applying to Lands Department now is for a permit that would allow us vehicular access along the cable route on a need basis.

While all visitors are invited to walk up to Lamma Winds, we reckon there may be a need to provide transportation for those physically challenged, or elderly who maynot be able to cope with the whole trip, both ways. In addition, we need to cater for local and overseas visitors who have very tight schedules. A permit will also facilitate contingency arrangements for special events like our annual Smart Power Campaign open days when an estimated 1,000 students would walk up to the station in 2 days. With a van on standby, we could provide speedy assistance for these students just in case. We don't envisage the need to use this more than a few times a year.

We're aware of the benefits of electric vehicle, but I'm afraid it may not have the necessary power to go uphill knowing how steep certain sections along the cable route are. While we would continue to explore, I hope you do understand the situation now.

Emission-free vehicle to be used to Lamma Winds

HK Electric has taken on board Lamma residents’ suggestion to use an emission-free electric cart to provide, on a need basis, special transport trips for visitors to Lamma Winds.

An application has recently been filed to Lands Department for permission to use a 4-seater electric cart to take visitors from Lamma Power Station to Lamma Winds in the event that transportation is required. This electric cart will only be used when special arrangements have to be made for visitors who may not be able to travel on foot, in particular the elderly and physically-challenged. All other visitors will be asked to walk up.

When HK Electric applied for the same service with a minibus with Euro IV emissions standards back in February 2008, Lamma residents expressed concerns even though it was the cleanest available diesel vehicle on the market at the time. We have since explored the feasibility of using an emission-free electric cart for the purpose.

We believe the proposed arrangement represents a balance in respecting the environment on Lamma while at the same time, allowing visitors with special needs to travel to Hong Kong’s only wind power station.

We will exercise extreme care and prudence in the event that the vehicle has to be used. Support by Lamma residents is highly appreciated.

The road would make an excellent dry ski slope.