Traffic mostly smooth on first school day

     Traffic conditions were mostly smooth and public transport services were generally adequate to meet demand this morning on the first school day today (September 1), the Transport Department said.

     The department's Emergency Transport Co-ordination Centre (ETCC) has been closely monitoring the traffic situation and public transport services since 6.30am today. Staff were deployed to monitor the traffic and transport situation on-site at various major public transport interchanges and school areas. They provided updated information to the ETCC for arranging public transport service enhancements or informing the Police regarding traffic regulation when necessary.

     As in previous years, the overall road traffic, including major trunk roads, cross-harbour tunnels and especially the traffic in school areas, was busier than usual on the first school day. However, the traffic on major trunk roads and cross-harbour tunnels was generally smooth. For public transport services, MTR and bus services maintained normal.

     "Students are reminded to familiarise themselves with the public transport routes to be taken to school as early as possible to determine the most suitable travel patterns," a department spokesman said.

     The department will continue to closely monitor the traffic situation and public transport services in the next few days when more schools begin to resume their normal school hours. Close liaison with major public transport operators and relevant government departments will also be maintained.

     The spokesman reminded students to allow more time for travel and pay attention to road safety. Those living on the outlying islands or attending schools on the outlying islands are advised to check in advance the ferry schedules, the vessel types to be used and journey time on their intended ferry trips. Meanwhile, in view of possible congestion in school areas, motorists should avoid driving to these areas.

     Drivers of nanny vans and school buses are also reminded to drive carefully, especially on steep roads, in narrow lanes or at locations where driving in reverse is necessary. Speeding and overloading are prohibited and they are not allowed to leave students unattended in the vehicles. They should also keep their vehicles clean and hygienic and enhance disinfection to reduce the risk of the spread of COVID-19. An escort should be provided on board when serving kindergarten or primary school students. Drivers and escorts should ensure that all students are properly wearing their seat belts (if provided) before the vehicles move off.

     The road traffic, especially on major trunk roads and in cross-harbour tunnels, is likely to become busier compared with the situation during the summer holidays. Passenger demand for public transport services will also increase sharply. Members of the public are advised to allow more time for their trips during the morning peak hours.

     Members of the public can obtain the latest special traffic and transport arrangements from radio, television or the department's mobile application "HKeMobility" before leaving home.

     For enquiries on schedules of bus, ferry or railway services, please call the following hotlines or visit the websites of the major public transport operators: