Gov’t: Data review needed for Macau Bridge use during Signal No. 8

Typhoon Wipha was the first strong storm to test the Macau Bridge, built for over MOP5.2 billion, which demonstrated its capability to remain operational under a Typhoon Signal No. 8, though the Public Works Bureau (DSOP) is reviewing data to assess future operations during typhoons.

Typhoon Wipha directly struck Macau yesterday, bringing the first Signal No. 10 of the year.

In response, the government declared an immediate preventive state when Signal No. 8 was issued, leading to the closure of four Macau-Taipa bridges.

Following the announcement, netizens referenced comments made by Yang Song, assistant general manager of China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) and managing director of CCECC Hong Kong and Macau Branch, during an interview last year with mainland Chinese and Hong Kong media.

He stated that the Macau Bridge was designed to withstand winds associated with Signal No. 8, capable of reducing wind speeds by three to four levels, and that testing had been conducted during the modeling phase.

This led many to question the government’s reversal of its “commitment” that the bridge could remain operational under Signal No. 8, referencing earlier assurances that it could operate safely under those conditions.

According to a report in the Macao Daily News yesterday, the Civil Protection Operations Center of the Unitary Police Service (SPU) stated that, based on information from the DSOP in September last year, data would be collected to assess the feasibility of opening the Macau Bridge to the public during typhoon conditions. Consequently, the Macau Bridge will remain closed during Signal No. 8, similar to the other three bridges.

According to reports, Yang Song previously stated to the media that, if permitted by the government, the bridge could be opened to traffic under a Signal No. 8. However, there are currently no considerations for operating the bridge under stronger winds associated with Signal No. 9 or No. 10.

The DSOP indicated in September last year that once the Macau Bridge is operational, it will collect data on the effectiveness of wind barriers during Signal No. 8 and analyze the conditions under which traffic can be allowed.

Authorities noted that the main section of the Macau Bridge is equipped with wind barriers designed to reduce wind speeds on the bridge to levels comparable to those at its landing points.

This ensures that wind speeds on the bridge during a Signal No. 8 remain lower than those on land, creating a consistent driving environment with the mainland.

Operating ‘black taxis’ during extreme weather conditions

The Shi Min Daily reported today on the responsibilities of taxi operators during typhoons.

The article noted that Leng Sai Vai, president of the Association of Trade and Workers of the Automobile Industry of Macau, expressed a desire for the government to clearly define the risks and responsibilities associated with operating during extreme weather conditions.

He suggested that this clarity would enable industry operators to make informed decisions about whether to maintain limited services during such events.

According to Leng, during Signal No. 8, government regulations theoretically permitted only “black taxis” to continue operating, even though the government did not encourage this. It is estimated that around 20% of the total “black taxis” in Macau, roughly 200 vehicles, remained in operation during Signal No. 8.

The industry insider commented that operating “black taxis” during a typhoon does not violate regulations. However, he recommended that the government enhance the timely dissemination of traffic information for drivers’ reference.

Leng also suggested using this typhoon, Wipha, as an opportunity to test the feasibility of maintaining traffic flow on the Macau Bridge under a Signal No. 8, while clarifying the associated risks and responsibilities for operators and drivers.

The decision to continue operations should be left to the discretion of the operators, rather than mandating a suspension.

The insider noted that while taxi drivers can purchase “typhoon insurance,” the annual cost ranges from approximately MOP20,000 to MOP30,000, which is relatively high and deters many drivers from obtaining it.

Furthermore, incidents such as scaffolding collapses or debris shattering windows during typhoons are not covered by third-party insurance.

In the event of an accident. including injuries or fatalities, drivers would be responsible for a significant portion of the compensation liability.