Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
In response to and in support of the 10th National Security Education Day, the Fire Services Department (FSD) held an open day today (April 13) at the Fire and Ambulance Services Academy (FASA) in Tseung Kwan O to deepen the public’s understanding of the department’s work in safeguarding national security, public safety and public order, as well as enhancing their awareness of the responsibility in safeguarding national security. The event attracted more than 9 000 visitors.
The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, attended the flag-raising ceremony in the morning. Speaking at the ceremony, he highlighted the FSD’s pivotal role in safeguarding national security. He mentioned that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region search and rescue team, which recently returned from completing a search-and-rescue mission in earthquake-stricken areas of Myanmar, comprised of 41 members from the FSD. Mr Chan commended the search and rescue team’s swift response and professionalism, stating that their efforts demonstrated the country’s commitment to global humanitarian efforts, and exemplified the spirit of taking the promotion of international security as a support, which is one of the five essential elements of the holistic approach to national security.
Accompanied by the Director of Fire Services, Mr Andy Yeung, Mr Chan visited the exhibition on national security, and toured the National Security Education cum Resource Centre in the FASA. The Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung, also visited national security education game booths in the company of the Commandant of the FASA, Mr Cheu Yu-kok.
The open day featured exhibition boards and game booths on national security to enhance public awareness of the importance of national security through interactive engagement. Moreover, simulation training facilities, the simulated Pak Shing Kok railway station, the Fire and Ambulance Services Education Centre cum Museum, and the National Security Education cum Resource Centre were open to the public. Members of the public could learn more about the department’s firefighting and rescue services, as well as its mission of “saving those in distress and protecting the community”.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Digital Policy Office and the Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Data signed the Memorandum of Understanding between Shanghai and Hong Kong on Digital Economy Co-operation (the MoU) in Hong Kong today (April 13) to jointly promote and deepen co-operation in areas such as digital economy, digital transformation and data element development between the two places.
At the Kick-off Ceremony of the Hong Kong/Shanghai Co-operation Open Data Challenge 2025 and the Signing Ceremony of the MoU held during the period of InnoEX, the Commissioner for Digital Policy, Mr Tony Wong, and the Director of the Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Data, Dr Shao Jun, signed the MoU. Both sides will strengthen collaboration on various fronts, including the promotion of the synergistic development of Hong Kong and Shanghai in digital economy, data element market collaboration and digital identity authentication; jointly taking forward the cross-boundary public services for the convenience and benefit of the public and businesses, co-operation in digital infrastructure, industrial spaces and communication platform; and deepen exchanges and talent cultivation in innovation and technology between the two places.
“The signing of the MoU will further deepen co-operation in innovation and technology between Hong Kong and Shanghai, explore more collaboration opportunities and promote joint development of the digital economy in both places, thereby opening up broader prospects for the development of innovation and technology industries between the two places,” said Mr Wong.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
To echo the National Security Education Day on April 15, the Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF) held the “National Security Education Day cum Police Museum Open Day” today (April 13) to enhance public awareness of national security, foster their sense of national identity and offer an opportunity for the community to learn more about the history and work of the HKPF.
Addressing at the opening ceremony, the Deputy Financial Secretary, Mr Michael Wong, said that safeguarding national security is everyone’s responsibility. The HKSAR Government has always been committed to promoting national security education to enhance public awareness and foster a sense of responsibility in protecting national security. He praised the HKPF for their crucial role in safeguarding national security. He said that Hong Kong has long been regarded as one of the safest cities in the world. This reassures investors and tourists to visit and should never be taken for granted; rather, it is the result of concerted efforts, with significant contributions from the HKPF.
The Commissioner of Police, Mr Chow Yat-ming, in his opening remarks, said that national security is the cornerstone of prosperity and stability for a society. He added that the HKPF will continue its unwavering efforts to prevent, suppress, and impose punishment for acts endangering national security. Stressing that community support and participation are essential elements for safeguarding national security, he hoped the public would remain vigilant at all times and work together to safeguard national security.
At the opening ceremony, the officiating guests were accompanied by children in mini police uniforms to display the 20 key areas of national security, symbolising the Police and the public’s concerted efforts to convey the message of “national security, a mission we share”.
To commemorate the 5th anniversary of the implementation of the National Security Law, the 5th anniversary of the establishment of the National Security Department of the HKPF, the 1st anniversary of the implementation of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, and the 10th anniversary of the National Security Education Day, the open day featured the “National Security Express – Police Museum Station”, which showcased the Force’s efforts in safeguarding national security. The advanced equipment of various units, including the Police Dog Unit, the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Bureau and the Counter Terrorism Response Unit, were also on display, providing the public with an opportunity to learn about the work of the Force.
In addition, officers dressed in police uniforms from different generations were present to take photos with the public, showcasing the evolution of police uniforms. In addition to the interactive technology elements in the Police Museum’s exhibitions, retired police officers and civilian staff also provided guided tours to the visitors, enabling them to have a better understanding of the history of the Force. The open day also featured a “drone football” experience game, an anti-drug publicity vehicle and a number of check-in spots where the public could take photos and have fun.
A Dose of Atmanirbhar Bharat How Make in India is transforming India’s Global Pharmaceutical Footprint
Posted On: 13 APR 2025 2:56PM by PIB Delhi
Introduction
The Department of Pharmaceuticals, under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, is responsible for matters related to the pricing and availability of affordable medicines, research and developmentand international obligations. With a vision to make India the world’s largest provider of quality medicines at reasonable prices, the department’s efforts align with the Make in India initiative. The Indian pharmaceutical industry continues to play a crucial role in manufacturing high-quality, cost-effective medicines for both domestic and global markets, marked by its dominance in branded generic medicines, competitive pricing, and a robust network of indigenous brands.[1]
India has been UNICEF’s largest vaccine supplier for the past six to seven years, contributing 55% to 60% of total volume procured contributing 99%, 52% and 45% of the WHO demand for DPT, BCG and the measles vaccines, respectively.[2]
The medical devices sector in India is an essential and integral constituent of the Indian healthcare sector, particularly for prevention, diagnosis, treatment and management of all medical conditions and disabilities. The medical devices sector is a multi-disciplinary sector. Its constituent device categories are-
electro-medical equipment
implants
consumables and disposables
surgical instruments
in vitro diagnostic reagents
Several segments of the medical device industry are highly capital-intensive, with a long gestation period, and require continuous induction of new technologies and the ongoing training of healthcare professionals to adapt to new technologies in the sector.
The Department of Pharmaceuticals considers FDI proposals falling under the Government approval route in pharmaceutical and meditech activities for approval or rejection as per FDI Policy.
In the financial year of 2024-25, from April 2024 to December 2024, FDI inflows (in both pharmaceuticals and medical devices) has been ₹11,888 Crore.
Further, the Department of Pharmaceuticals has approved 13 FDI proposals worth ₹7,246.40 Crore for brownfield projects during FY 2024-25.
The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme, launched in 2020 by the Government of India, is a transformative initiative aimed at boosting domestic manufacturing, attracting investments, reducing reliance on imports and increasing exports. Aligned with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and the larger Make in India initiative, the scheme offers financial incentives based on production performance, encouraging companies to scale up operations, adopt advanced technologies, and improve global competitiveness.
For pharmaceuticals, the initiative aims to reduce import dependence on Key Starting Materials (KSMs), Drug Intermediates (DIs), and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), strengthening India’s manufacturing base. By promoting production and innovation, it boosts domestic capabilities and global competitiveness.
Overview of the PLI Schemes
The Department of Pharmaceuticals administers three PLI schemes as part of the Government of India’s larger initiative to enhance manufacturing capabilities. These include:
PLI Scheme for Pharmaceuticals
PLI Scheme for promotion of domestic manufacturing of critical KSMs/DIs/APIs
PLI Scheme for promoting domestic manufacturing of Medical Devices[7]
The PLI Scheme for Pharmaceuticals was approved by the Union Cabinet on 24 February 2021[9], with a financial outlay of ₹15,000 croreand the production tenure from FY 2022- 2023 to FY 2027-28, provides financial incentive to 55 selected applicants for manufacturing of identified products under three categories for a period of six years. Under this scheme, high value pharmaceutical products such as patented/off-patented drugs, biopharmaceuticals, complex generics, anti-cancer drugs, autoimmune drugs, among others, are manufactured.[10]
Key Features of the Scheme:
The scheme supports the manufacturing of pharmaceutical goods under three categories:
Category 1: Biopharmaceuticals, complex generic drugs, patented drugs or those nearing patent expiry, gene therapy drugs, orphan drugs, and complex excipients.
Category 2: Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), Key Starting Materials (KSMs), and Drug Intermediates (DIs).
The PLI Scheme for KSMs, DIs, and APIs was launched on 20 March 2020, with a financial outlay of ₹6,940 crore for the period FY 2020-21 to FY 2029-30. The main objective of Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for promotion of domestic manufacturing of critical Key Starting Materials (KSMs)/ Drug Intermediates and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) in India is to promote domestic manufacturing of 41 identified bulk drugs to address their high import dependence.
Achievements under the PLI Scheme for KSMs, DIs, and APIs
One of the significant achievements under the PLI scheme has been the surpassing of targeted investments. While the initial commitment was ₹3,938.57 crore, the actual realized investment has already reached ₹4,253.92 crore (as of December 2024).
Under the PLI scheme for Bulk Drugs, a total of 48 projects have been selected under the scheme, of which 34 projects have been commissioned for 25 bulk drugs as of December 2024.
Notable Projects Under the PLI Scheme for Bulk Drugs
Penicillin G Project (Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh): ₹1,910 crore investment; expected import substitution of ₹2,700 crore per annum.
Clavulanic Acid Project (Nalagarh, Himachal Pradesh): ₹450 crore investment; expected import substitution of ₹600 crore per annum.[13]
The PLI Scheme for Medical Devices was launched to support domestic manufacturing of high-end medical equipment and reduce reliance on imports. The scheme provides financial incentives to manufacturers in key segments such as radiology, imaging, cancer care, and implants.The period of the scheme is from financial year 2020-21 to financial year 2027-28 with total financial outlay of Rs. 3,420 crore. Under the scheme, financial incentive is given to selected companies, at the rate of 5% of incremental sales of medical devices manufactured in India and covered under the target segments of the scheme, for a period of five years.
Category of applicant
Incentive Period
Incentive rate
Category A
FY 2022-23 to FY 2026-27
5% limited to Rs.121 crore per applicant
Category B
FY 2022-23 to FY 2026-27
5% limited to Rs.40 crore per applicant
The details of incentive under the scheme are as follows:
Approved in March 2020, the Promotion of Bulk Drug Parks scheme (FY 2020–21 to FY 2025–26) aims to establish parks with world-class common infrastructure to reduce manufacturing costs and enhance self-reliance in bulk drugs. Proposals from Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh were approved under the scheme. Financial assistance is capped at ₹1,000 crore per park or 70% of the project cost (90% for Northeastern and Hilly States), with a total outlay of ₹3,000 crore.[16]
Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya JanaushadhiPariyojana
With an objective of making quality generic medicines available at affordable prices to all, Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya JanaushadhiPariyojana (PMBJP) aims to ensure access to affordable, quality generic medicines across India.
Some of the activities under this initiative include:
Raising Awareness: Educating the public on the benefits of generic medicines, highlighting that affordability doesn’t compromise quality and countering the belief that higher prices mean better efficacy.
Encouraging Prescriptions of Generic Drugs: Promoting the use of generics by motivating healthcare professionals, especially in government hospitals, to prescribe cost-effective alternatives.
Enhancing Accessibility: Ensuring the availability of essential generic medicines across therapeutic categories, with a focus on reaching underserved communities.[17]
As of April 8, 2025, there are a total of 15,479 Jan AushadiKendras across the country.
Strengthening of Pharmaceuticals Industry Scheme (SPI Scheme)
The SPI scheme is a Central Sector Scheme (CSS) with an outlay of Rs.500 Cr with thescheme period from FY 2021-22 to FY 2025-26. [18]
Conclusion:
India’s pharmaceutical and medical devices sectors stand as a testament to the country’s growing capabilities in science, innovation, and manufacturing. Through visionary initiatives like the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes and Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya JanaushadhiPariyojana (PMBJP), the Department of Pharmaceuticals has not only bolstered domestic production but also ensured equitable access to affordable healthcare solutions. With its continued commitment to self-reliance under the Make in India vision, India is poised to solidify its position as a global hub for high-quality, cost-effective medicines and medical technologies, empowering both its citizens and contributing significantly to global health outcomes.
In a significant late-night operation on April 11, 2025, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) intercepted a 12-wheeler truck and seized 52.67 kg methamphetamine tablets, valued at Rs. 52.67 crore in the international drug market, on the outskirts of Aizawl, Mizoram.
The operation uncovered a novel method of concealing and transporting smuggled drugs — 53 meticulously packed, brick-sized packets were found hidden within the folds of the truck’s tarpaulin cover.
The packets bore inscriptions such as “3030 Export Only” and “999”, alongside diamond symbols, and contained orange-pink tablets. Tests conducted using the NDPS Field Test Kit confirmed the tablets contained methamphetamine.
The truck, registered in Nagaland, had originated from Zokhawthar—a sensitive border town near the Indo-Myanmar frontier—and was enroute to Tripura. DRI intercepted the vehicle before it left Mizoram. Notably, the truck carried no declared goods at the time. Earlier, it had transported cement from Meghalaya to Champhai before continuing to Zokhawthar, where the contraband was loaded.
The truck’s driver and his assistant were arrested under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. Preliminary investigations indicate that the drugs had been smuggled into Mizoram from Myanmar via the Zokhawthar sector.
The DRI has The DRI has seized 148.50 kg methamphetamine tablets in the North Eastern Region since January 2025 till today, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to combating drug smuggling.
Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Undertakes ‘Jai Bhim Padyatra’ in Patna, Bihar Over 6,000 MY Bharat Youth Volunteers Joins Padyatra Honouring Dr. Ambedkar’s Legacy
Youth are the torchbearers of Dr. Ambedkar’s Legacy – Dr. Mandaviya
MY Bharat Youth Volunteers Organises Jai Bhim Padyatras in Every State Capital and Over 5000 Locations Nationwide
Posted On: 13 APR 2025 2:05PM by PIB Delhi
Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya led a historic Jai Bhim Padyatra in Patna, Bihar today. The padyatra was flagged off by the Hon’ble Speaker of the Bihar Legislative Assembly, Shri Nand Kishore Yadav and over 6,000 MY Bharat Youth Volunteers participated in the padyatra. The padyatra stood as a vibrant tribute to Babasaheb’s life and legacy, placing a strong emphasis on youth engagement and the enduring values of the Constitution.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya emphasized the strength of India’s youthandcalled upon them to become torchbearers of Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy for building a new India. “As the sun rose over Patna, it illuminated not only a statue but a spirit, a renewed commitment to Dr. Ambedkar’s ideals and a Viksit Bharat led by its most powerful force, its youth”, he said.
Union Minister urged the youth of the nation to draw inspiration from the vision, legacy, and exemplary works of Babasaheb Ambedkar and other great leaders in India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat. He highlighted the pioneering contribution of Babasaheb Ambedkar in ensuring equal rights for women as early as 1947, a time when gender equality was not recognized in many parts of the world.
बाबा साहेब भीमराव अंबेडकर जी की जयंती के पूर्व आज पटना, बिहार में MY भारत के 6 हज़ार से अधिक युवा साथियों ने #JaiBhimPadyatra का आयोजन किया। बाबा साहेब संविधान के सूत्रधार थे, उन्होंने भारत के मजबूत लोकतंत्र की नींव रखी।
— Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) April 13, 2025
Calling upon the younger generation to take a solemn sankalp (pledge) to follow the ideals of these national icons, Dr. Mandaviya reiterated the importance of youth-led national development. He lauded the decisive leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and called upon the youth to align themselves with the PanchPran envisioned by the Prime Minister for building a strong, self-reliant, and inclusive Viksit Bharat.
Across the nation, Jai Bhim Padyatras were held in every state capital and across 5000 locations, where MY Bharat volunteers cleaned the statues of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar and paid tribute to Dr. Ambedkar’s enduring vision, renewing a collective commitment to build an inclusive, empowered, and youth-led India. Notably, Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Smt. Raksha Nikhil Khadse participated in Jai Bhim Padyatra in Mumbai, further amplifying the message of unity and national participation.
संविधान निर्माता बाबा साहेब के मूल्यों और उनके सिद्धांतों को दर्शाती ‘जय भीम पदयात्रा’
— Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) April 13, 2025
A collective reading of the Preamble to the Constitution by young achievers and MY Bharat volunteers reaffirmed the commitment to constitutional values. MY Bharat Youth Volunteers actively participated in the Padyatra, echoing the spirit of social harmony, democratic values, and inclusive progress through energetic and heartfelt slogans.
At several points along the route, cultural performances took place, with MY Bharat volunteers singing songs dedicated to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, adding vibrancy and emotion to the Padyatra. Water and refreshments were distributed to participants on route, ensuring their comfort and well-being. In a strong display of civic responsibility, MY Bharat volunteers were also seen actively cleaning the path and picking up litter, embodying the spirit of service throughout the Padyatra.
At the culmination of the Padyatra near the Patna High Court, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, along with other leaders, participated in a cleanliness drive around the statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. Following this, they garlanded Babasaheb’s photo and paid heartfelt tributes to the architect of the Indian Constitution. All dignitaries present joined in offering floral tributes, marking a moment of collective respect and remembrance.
Joining Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya were several distinguished dignitaries, including the Hon’ble Deputy Chief Ministers of Bihar, Shri SamratChoudhary and Shri Vijay Kumar Sinha, Former Union Minister and Patna MP, Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad, State Ministers, Shri Nitin Nabin and Shri SurendraMehata, Member of Parliament, Smt. ShambhaviChoudhary, MLA, Smt. Shreyasi Singh and MLC, Shri Sanjay Mayukh.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Speech by CE at Opening Ceremony of 2nd Hong Kong World Youth Science Conference and Xiangjiang Nobel Forum 2025 (English only) (with video) Deputy Director Liu Guangyuan (Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region), Ms Li Ran (President of the Hong Kong Alumni Association of Beijing Universities), academics and scientists, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
I am pleased to join you, virtually, at the opening ceremony of this year’s Hong Kong World Youth Science Conference and Xiangjiang Nobel Forum. For those speakers, academics, scientists and guests coming from abroad, a very warm welcome to Hong Kong.
I am glad to note that many brilliant minds are brought together by the event today, from Nobel laureates, Turing laureates, and some 50 internationally renowned academics and scientists, to more than 600 leaders of innovation and technology enterprises from around the world.
You come from a wide scope of disciplines in frontier technologies and strategically important industries, such as life and health technology and artificial intelligence. We look forward to your insights at the upcoming conference and forum, bringing us inspiration and enlightenment for our innovation and technology (I&T) journey ahead.
You gather today in Hong Kong, a vibrant metropolis dedicated to innovation and technology. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is committed to promoting scientific progress, technological breakthroughs, and realising the boundless potential of talent like yourselves.
Innovation and technology form an important engine for economic development. And Hong Kong provides the ideal environment for I&T growth. Hong Kong is proud to be home to five of the world’s top 100 universities, with many academic subjects within the world’s top 10. Our universities and research institutions attract some of the world’s top scholars. Beyond our scientific excellence, Hong Kong’s world-class business environment also makes it easy for us to foster a vibrant I&T ecosystem here, where research and development, entrepreneurship, and I&T collaboration flourish.
Hong Kong is dedicated to develop into an international I&T centre. We will set up an Innovation and Technology Industry-Oriented Fund, worth HK$10 billion, or over US$1.2 billion, to channel more market capital into emerging and future industries of strategic importance.
We will also launch an I&T Accelerator Pilot Scheme, which will provide nearly US$4 million in funding, on a one-to-two matching basis, to each professional start-up service agency joining the Scheme. It will help to enrich our start-up ecosystem and widen their business network. These efforts bring together our prowess as an international financial and trade centre, and build the momentum for the future growth of our vibrant I&T scene.
Innovation does not exist in isolation. It thrives through exchange, dialogue, and collaboration – precisely the spirit of this conference. Over the next few days, Hong Kong will usher in a rich line-up of I&T activities to foster exchanges on various strategic areas.
Tomorrow, the World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit will take place, for the first time, in Hong Kong. InnoEx, our flagship marketing-oriented event that showcases smart solutions, will be held this coming week. All these, during our Business of Innovation and Technology Week led by the Government’s Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau.
I look forward to the exchange of innovative ideas among scientists, academics, industry experts, and more. While you’re here, rejoicing in these intellectually stimulating events, also enjoy all that our world city has to offer, from natural scenery, to wine and dine.
I wish you all the best in your scientific endeavours and business, and an extraordinary stay in Hong Kong. Thank you. Issued at HKT 16:00
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Kai Tak Sports Park concertgoers should use public transport and stay alert to unstable weather MTR: Special bus routes:Hong Kong Island: Causeway Bay, Wan Chai, Admiralty, Central, Tai Koo, Shau Kei Wan, Siu Sai Wan; Kowloon: Mong Kok, Kwun Tong; New Territories East: Tai Po, Fanling, Sheung Shui, Tseung Kwan O; New Territories West: Tuen Mun, Yuen Long, Tin Shui Wai, Kwai Chung, Tsuen Wan, Tsing Yi; Taxis: Spectators are advised to take heed of the real-time information via the on-site broadcast and the “Easy Leave” platform (easyleave.police.gov.hkIssued at HKT 19:06
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
​Correctional officers stopped a 38-year-old male remand person in custody from committing suicide by hanging in Lai Chi Kok Reception Centre today (April 12).
At 12.03pm today, a correctional officer found the remand person in custody attempting suicide in the toilet of a dayroom by hanging with a pair of trousers tied to a window grille. The officer immediately rescued him and called for reinforcements. The remand person in custody was found unconscious and was subsequently sent to a public hospital for further treatment. The case has been reported to the Police.
A spokesman for the Correctional Services Department said, “The department uses all possible measures to prevent persons in custody from attempting suicide or self-harm. These measures include administrative arrangements, improvement of institution facilities, staff training and first-aid services.”
The person in custody was remanded for the offence of conspiracy to defraud in April 2024.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The reprovisioned On Lok Mun Street Playground in Fanling opened today (April 12), providing the public with a variety of extreme sports facilities that meet international standards.
The new On Lok Mun Street Playground covers an area of over 3 800 square metres, containing a skatepark of some 1 600 sq m that features extreme sports facilities, including a bowl course and a street course, suitable for players of different skill levels to practise tricks. As certified by World Skate, the bowl and street facilities are of international standards. The playground is designed and constructed by the Civil Engineering and Development Department, and is managed by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD).
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Director of Civil Engineering and Development, Mr Michael Fong, said that the reprovisioning and upgrading of the On Lok Mun Street Playground was undertaken in active response to the growing popularity of skateboarding following the Tokyo Olympics and the community’s aspirations for facilities meeting international standards. He noted that the new venue was designed and constructed to align with international standards and has successfully obtained certification from World Skate.
Mr Fong added that the project team overcame challenges during implementation, including adjustment of works sequence to accommodate the construction of the Fanling Bypass Eastern Section and the impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic. Adhering to a ‘people-first’ principle, the team maintained close communication with community stakeholders, provided a temporary practice venue, and employed innovative construction methods and meticulous craftsmanship to successfully complete the skatepark.
At the opening ceremony, a total of 12 professional extreme sports athletes from different regions gave impressive demonstrations. Amongst them are the World Skate Asia Scooter Technical Committee member, Ma Xiangyu, who is from Mainland China; Cheng Tze-wang, who has represented Hong Kong to participate in many overseas aggressive inline skating competitions; and Soichiro Kanashima, who is a Japanese professional aggressive inline skater.
The original On Lok Mun Street Playground was demolished in February 2023 to facilitate the implementation of the Fanling Bypass (Eastern Section) project. It has been reprovisioned at a site about 150 metres north of the original site, with the entrance on the Lung Yeuk Tau section of Sha Tau Kok Road, near the North District Temporary Wholesale Market for Agricultural Products. In addition to its extreme sports facilities, the playground is also equipped with toilets and changing rooms, arbours and garden benches.
The opening hours of the playground are from 8am to 10pm daily, while the opening hours of the skatepark may be adjusted due to weather conditions. The skatepark will be closed from 8am to noon on the first and third Mondays of each month for regular maintenance. Those who plan to visit the playground can take a minibus to the Wo Mun Street Minibus Terminus at Luen Wo Hui, followed by a roughly 10-minute walk through Luen Wo Hui Community Hall, or take a bus or minibus to Lung Yeuk Tau and then walk for about five minutes to the venue.
For any enquiries, please contact the North District Leisure Services Office of the LCSD at 2679 2819 or visit the LCSD website (www.lcsd.gov.hk/en/index.html).