Gov’t makes positive evaluation of temporary pedestrian zones

The government interdepartmental team responsible for establishing and monitoring the temporary pedestrian zones set up for the May 1 holidays has made a positive evaluation of the zones’ outcomes.

In a press statement, the group, which includes the Economic and Technological Development Bureau (DSEDT), the Municipal Affairs Bureau (IAM), the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO), the Public Security Police Force (PSP), the Fire Services Bureau (CB), the Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC), and the Transport Bureau (DSAT), said that the two zones (in Taipa Old Village and on Rua de Nossa Senhora do Amparo in Macau) have run smoothly and in good order.

Expressing gratitude to residents, schools, and businesses in these areas for their support and collaboration, the interdepartmental working group noted that the project was completed, demonstrating the orderly implementation of measures to manage the flow of people and traffic.

The measure, which followed the first implementation of the same zones during the Chinese New Year holidays, aimed to promote community consumption, enhance the tourist experience, and strengthen community vitality.

The working group also noted that it is conducting a more comprehensive analysis and evaluation to improve management and complementary measures, balancing the needs of merchants, residents, and tourists with the shops’ commercial needs.

While the MGTO and DSAT said they had reinforced communication with travel agencies and public bus companies to ensure traffic flow, the PSP dispatched a large number of officers to assist in all surrounding areas to ensure the smooth flow of people and vehicles and to provide immediate support in resolving various emergencies that may occur suddenly in the zones and surrounding areas.

The IAM noted that it had also reinforced its inspections and mobilized additional workers to intensify street and public restroom cleaning and garbage collection, ensuring a clean and hygienic environment.

Coordinating with the zones, and particularly in Taipa, the IC extended the opening hours of the former Iec Long Firecracker Factory until 9 p.m., reinforcing cleaning, hygiene, and management efforts to accommodate the increased number of visitors.

The DSEDT, together with business associations, launched a special consumer promotion during the event, offering souvenirs to customers who made purchases of 50 patacas or more at designated stalls.

The pedestrian zones were in effect until yesterday (May 4), with the streets returning to normal today.