Public Works: Gov’t aims to minimize manhole covers as key task this year

The Secretary for Transport and Public Works, Raymond Tam, emphasized late last year that minimizing the number of manhole covers on roads is essential for the safety of motorcycle riders, making it a key focus of the Roadworks Coordination Task Force this year.

In a statement issued yesterday, the Transport Bureau (DSAT) revealed that the working group has been instructed by the Secretary to continue reducing the number of manhole covers during the project planning phase to minimize the impact of roadworks on traffic. The statement highlighted that the group’s key tasks this year include progressively reviewing the quantity and distribution of manhole covers within planned construction zones.

As noted, where technically feasible, covers will be consolidated or removed to improve road surface conditions, enhance motorcycle rider safety, and demonstrate that roadworks coordination effectively meets public needs.

As early as last year, the Municipal Affairs Bureau responded to a written inquiry from lawmaker Ngan Iek Hang regarding the optimization of the city’s manhole covers, affirming its commitment to “continue exploring the feasibility of adopting new types of manhole covers and related technologies suitable for use in Macau in the future.” The inquiry emphasized that the material of manhole covers is a significant factor contributing to motorcycle skidding on roads.

Numerous manhole covers are reportedly scattered across roads in Macau’s urban districts, creating hidden hazards during rainy weather or flooding in low-lying areas that pose serious threats to road users’ safety. Reports indicate an excessive density of manhole covers on certain road sections, with some areas featuring over 20 covers within just 30 to 40 meters. These covers conceal essential networks for drainage, water supply, electricity, gas, and telecommunications.

The uneven road surfaces and asphalt deterioration have seemingly become the norm in Macau, as evidenced by annual complaints from Macau Grand Prix drivers regarding the bumpy streets, including the Guia Circuit.