Talk of the town：Regulatory sandbox pilot projects officially launched
【明報專訊】The government has opened applications for various companies to test different drone applications on specific routes as part of the effort to develop the low-altitude economy in Hong Kong.
Recently, the government announced the approval of 38 projects for trials, including the delivery of food and medicine. Most routes focus on coastal areas such as the Science Park in Tai Po and Ma On Shan. Projects also include the transportation of emergency relief supplies and search and rescue operations. Among these projects, Keeta is set to begin testing drone delivery ''across the sea'' in April, aiming to deliver within 10 minutes at the same cost as traditional delivery services conducted by riders.
◆What is the low-altitude economy?
The low-altitude economy, which involves economic activities below 1000 meters in airspace, offers various applications such as rescues, surveys, and the delivery of goods and passengers. This emerging economy is expected to enhance efficiency and raise people's living standards. However, concerns have been raised about privacy and safety issues in the development of the low-altitude economy.
◆Air Taxi in China
The central government has placed significant emphasis on developing the low-altitude economy. Several provinces in China have proposed plans for its development, while all eyes are on air taxis, or flying taxis.
A company successfully completed an air taxi flight from Shenzhen to Zhuhai last year, covering the distance in just 20 minutes.
■Grammar booster
All eyes are on (someone/something)
If all eyes are on someone / something, everyone is watching that person or thing and waiting to see what will happen.
E.g. All eyes are on the debater to see how he will respond to the arguments presented by his opponents.
■Gear up
1. The government has permitted the operation of air taxi in Hong Kong. (True/ False)
Fill in the blanks with the glossary below.
2. She showed enormous courage when she ______ him from the fire.
3. This teacher put great ______ on student' moral education.
(Answers on next text)
■Glossary
coastal (v) 沿海的
rescue (v/n) 救援
emerging (adj) 新興的
emphasis (n) 重視
(Criticisms on this publication, if any, are aimed at pointing out the errors or defects of certain systems or policies with a view to rectifying or eradicating such errors or defects, as well as prompting improvement or remedy for them via lawful means. There is absolutely no intention of inciting hatred, discontent or hostility towards the government or other classes of the community.)
[Smarties' Power English 第438期]
