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The Transport Advisory Committee at its meeting today (February 22) was briefed about traffic and transport arrangements for the commissioning of Hong Kong¡ªShenzhen Western Corridor (HK-SWC).
"We note that the Hong Kong section of HK-SWC was completed at the end of 2005. The Administration is working closely with the Shenzhen Government on the remaining works and other preparation with a view to commissioning the new crossing around mid-2007," committee chairman, Ms Teresa Cheng, said.
"We are pleased to note further that a public transport interchange will be provided at the Shenzhen Bay Port, allowing the provision of public transport services to the control point," Ms Cheng said.
The Administration has planned one franchised bus route to/from Yuen Long East, one franchised bus route to/from Tuen Mun, one green minibus route to/from Tin Shui Wai and the provision of urban and New Territories taxi services in the interchange.
"We believe that the provision of public transport services to the new control point will provide more choices for cross-boundary passengers."
The Administration has also reached agreement with the Mainland authorities on the issue of quotas to be issued for cross-boundary private cars and coaches. For private cars, it would initially issue 1,500 new HK-SWC quotas.
There will also be a three-month trial period upon the commissioning of HK-SWC, during which existing quota-holders can try using HK-SWC and apply for a HK-SWC quota by surrendering their existing quota for other crossings.
In addition, 300 quotas will be issued to cross-boundary coaches.
"We hope that the commissioning of HK-SWC will further facilitate cross-boundary people and vehicular flow between Hong Kong and the Mainland, and ease the congestion at the existing crossings," Ms Cheng said.
Ends/Thursday, February 22, 2007
Issued at HKT 18:03
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