EPD's response to media enquiries on Air Quality Health Index Health Risk Levels
In response to media enquiries on health risk category for Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) reaching the "Serious" risk level, the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) today (April 13) gave the following response:
Under the influence of a dusty air stream associated with the northeast monsoon, the level of Hong Kong's suspended particulates has started rising since 10pm last night (April 12).
This morning, the AQHI health risk level was "High" to "Very High". It is anticipated that by late afternoon, the health risk category of the AQHI of some air quality monitoring stations may reach the "Serious" risk level.
The dusty air particles consist mainly of larger-sized particulates, leading to a more significant increase in respirable suspended particulates (PM10) compared to fine suspended particulates (PM2.5), where the latter have a more direct impact on human health.
Hong Kong has recorded of being affected by dusty air streams, with impacts lasting from a few hours to several days. Due to long-distance transport, the effect of dusty air stream on Hong Kong is expected to be comparable to the accumulation of air pollutants under typical stagnant wind conditions.
The impact of this dusty air stream may last for one to two days. According to the Hong Kong Observatory's forecast, a southerly airstream is expected to reach and affect the coastal areas of Guangdong by mid of this week. The EPD anticipates that air quality in Hong Kong will improve by then.
The EPD will closely monitor the situation. Members of the public can check the hourly-updated AQHI on the EPD's website at www.aqhi.gov.hk/en.html or call the EPD's hotline at 2827 8541.
Notice on appointments to advisory and statutory bodies
A Government spokesman said today (January 12) that Mr Chan Kin-por recently sought approval from the Chief Executive to suspend his three public positions as appointed by the Chief Executive, until the completion of the work of the Independent Committee in relation to the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po (Independent Committee). Mr Chan made this request to allow himself more time to dedicate to the work of the Independent Committee. After due consideration, the Chief Executive has agreed to and approved this request. The three public positions are: (1) Chairman of Independent Commission Against Corruption Advisory Committee on Corruption; (2) Non-executive Director of Urban Renewal Authority Board; and (3) Member of Honours and Non-official Justices of the Peace Selection Committee.
On December 12, 2025, the Government established the Independent Committee to examine the causes of the incident and related issues, ascertain the facts, and make recommendations on preventing similar tragedies and on improvement measures. The Independent Committee is chaired by Mr Justice David Lok, with Mr Chan Kin-por and Dr Rex Auyeung Pak-kuen serving as members. The Independent Committee held its first meeting on December 19 last year and aims to complete its work within nine months of commencing operations.
Mr Chan Kin-por wrote earlier to the Chief Executive, expressing his wish to suspend the aforementioned three public positions until the Independent Committee completes its work, in order to dedicate more time and focus to the Independent Committee's tasks. The Chief Executive has agreed to and approved the request.
A Government spokesperson said that since the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, both the Government and the wider community have been highly concerned about the causes of the incident and the follow-up work. The scope of the Independent Committee's work is extensive, particularly concerning systemic issues related to bid-rigging and connected interests. Given the numerous issues involved and their complex nature, the Government will fully co-operate with the Independent Committee to ensure that it can complete its work and compile its report within nine months. The Government extends its gratitude to Mr Chan for accepting the appointment as a member of the Independent Committee and for his professional and conscientious approach to the Committee's work. When the Independent Committee's work is completed, the Government looks forward to Mr Chan's continuous contribution through his aforementioned public positions.
Source: AI-found images
