Ngong Ping 360 cable car opens in Hong Kong after typhoon delay - SCMP archive

This article was first published on September 18, 2006.Breezy launch is on the cardsBy Dennis EngThe Ngong Ping 360 cable car will open today in one of the windiest months of the year, according to the Hong Kong Observatory.Windy conditions with gusts reaching 90km/h occur on 5.5 days for a total of 52 hours in September on average, according to measurements taken at Ngong Ping between 2002 and last year. June, July and August are typically the windiest months.A Ngong Ping 360 cable car passes the lion dance at the official opening ceremony of the cable car service at Hong Kong’s Lantau Island on September 18, 2006. Photo: Robert NgThe Observatory’s forecast for today is for moderate north to northeasterly winds.The cable car is scheduled to open at 1pm after three months of delays due to glitches and further testing. Electrical and Mechanical Services Department staff will be on site to monitor the inauguration. The department will also conduct both prearranged and surprise inspections during the initial period.