Hong Kong Secretary for Transport and Logistics Lam Sai-hung stated that after the implementation of diversion measures for the three Road Harbour Crossings (RHCs), the overall traffic flow in Cross Harbour Tunnel (CHT) and Eastern Harbour Crossings (EHC) has reduced by 8-10%, while the traffic in the Western Tunnel has increased by 16%, resulting in a more balanced traffic distribution. Furthermore, the introduction of time-based tolls has led to a 1-4% decrease in the total traffic flow during peak hours and a 3-6% increase in the half-hour before and after peak hours, describing the results as evident.
Lam Sai-hung said that after the implementation of toll plans, the length of the vehicle queue in the Cross Harbour Tunnel has been reduced by 1 kilometer, and the queue in the Eastern Tunnel has been reduced by half a kilometer. When asked about the worsening traffic congestion in the Western Tunnel, Lam Sai-hung believes that the overall traffic demand should be considered, reiterating that during peak hours, the capacity of the three tunnels is 120% of the load-bearing capacity, and the current measures have achieved the expected results.
Regarding whether future population distribution will put greater pressure on the Western Tunnel, Lam Sai-hung stated that the government plans to build a bypass on the west side of Hong Kong Island, connecting Tsing Lung Bridge to the northern part of Lantau Island and the northwestern New Territories, which has been included in the future infrastructure blueprint.
Regarding the congestion issue at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, Lam Sai-hung said the government is concerned about the situation and has discussed the matter with the Zhuhai port authorities. Zhuhai has implemented optimization measures to enhance its customs clearance capacity, and the government has proposed solutions such as a pre-arrival booking system. The two sides will further discuss other possible approaches.
Lam Sai-hung also mentioned that the government has approved over 900 quotas for the public minibus industry labor importation scheme, with more than 600 people already arriving in Hong Kong, including over 400 drivers currently working.
Regarding logistics, Lam acknowledged the decline in Hong Kong's port throughput in recent years, which has been affected by other regions' economic and supply chain conditions. He hopes to enhance the port's competitiveness by developing green and smart ports and collaborating with mainland cities to facilitate cargo transportation through Hong Kong to other countries.
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