TAC briefed on traffic diversion arising from commissioning of Tseung Kwan O – Lam Tin Tunnel and service performance of MTRCL

The following is issued on behalf of the Transport Advisory Committee:
      
     The Transport Advisory Committee (TAC) was briefed today (February 21) on the traffic diversion arising from the commissioning of the Tseung Kwan O – Lam Tin Tunnel and service performance of the MTR Corporation Limited (MTRCL).

     Commissioned on December 11, 2022, the Tseung Kwan O – Lam Tin Tunnel (TKO-LTT) and the Cross Bay Link, Tseung Kwan O (CBL) provide an alternative route to connect Tseung Kwan O (TKO) and Kwun Tong as well as the Eastern Harbour Crossing. In general, the traffic of both the TKO-LTT and the CBL has been smooth at the initial stage after their commissioning, and the traffic condition at the TKO Tunnel has been significantly relieved. The operation of the five new franchised bus routes plying the TKO-LTT has been smooth and the service level has been able to cope with the current passenger demand.

     The TAC Chairman, Professor Stephen Cheung, said, "Members are delighted to note that the TKO-LTT has effectively diverted part of the traffic from the TKO Tunnel and has significantly improved the traffic condition of the TKO Tunnel. With the commissioning of the TKO-LTT and the CBL, as well as more transport infrastructure to be completed in the future, including the Trunk Road T2 and the Cha Kwo Ling Tunnel, it is anticipated that the road network will be able to cope with the traffic demands of the planned developments in TKO."

     â€‹In addition, members were briefed by the MTRCL on its service performance, including its benchmarking performance assessments, trend of railway incidents, as well as initiatives to enhance railway safety and customer experience. The Government added that it is the MTRCL's top priority to provide safe and reliable railway services to the public. The Government has been closely monitoring the service performance of the MTRCL and has established the Independent Monitoring Panel to monitor the comprehensive review being conducted by the MTRCL on its asset management and maintenance regime.

     Professor Cheung said, "The MTR is the most commonly used public transport in Hong Kong and the public has high expectations on the MTRCL. Members expressed concerns about the recent railway incidents. Besides implementing improvement measures following the incidents, the MTRCL shall comprehensively and thoroughly review its maintenance regime and strengthen its risk management capabilities. In the meantime, members noted the MTRCL's efforts in enhancing passenger experience and railway safety, especially the use of technology to promote smart mobility and upgrading of railway facilities. The MTRCL shall continue to provide safe and comfortable services to the public."