Hong Kong to test Beijing Olympic torch relay

HONG KONG, April 16 (Xinhua) -- A community torch relay will be held Friday to test the route and logistics for the May 2 Hong Kong leg of the Beijing Olympic Torch Relay, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government announced Wednesday.

"The test run will ensure the relay is conducted in a punctual, dignified and orderly manner," said Carrie Yau, permanent secretary for Home Affairs of the HKSAR government, at a press conference here.

As the relay will pass through busy roads, Yau called for public understanding and support for the smooth and safe staging of the event.

Hong Kong Police Senior Superintendent Michael Chiu said road closures, traffic control and diversion will be lifted as soon as possible after the relay convoy has passed to minimize impact to the public. Officers will be deployed for traffic management and crowd control.

The trial run will start at 10:30 a.m. at the Cultural Center Piazza in Tsim Sha Tsui and end at Golden Bauhinia Square at 5:00 p.m.

The Beijing Olympic flame is scheduled to arrive in Hong Kong on April 30 and the torch relay will be conducted on May 2.

The torch will be relayed in different forms and modes, including running and via vehicle, dragon boat and ferry. There will be 120 torchbearers selected from the sport, community and other sectors, plus students and volunteers.