China Continues to Support HK
HK Secretary for Justice Visits Canada
Congratulations to Sen. Vivienne Poy
CEPA - New Era for Global Companies
HK, China and the World as Team Players
HK's Electoral Systems on Right Course
HK Activates SARS Alert System
HK's West Rail Officially Opens
HK Economy Gains Momentum
IMF Expects 4.5% Growth for HK
Closer Links between HK and Shanghai
APEC Push on Global Talks Encouraging
|
 The 30.5 kilometre West Rail, the largest infrastructure project since the Hong Kong International Airport at Chek
Lap Kok, officially opened on December 20 to provide a fast, comfortable, reliable and environmentally friendly transport
link from Kowloon downtown to Northwest New Territories – or vice versa – in 30 minutes.
Speaking at the West Rail opening ceremony, the Hong Kong Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, said the new line would
further the development of the Northwest New Territories. He added that the HKSAR Government would continue investing in
transport infrastructure within Hong Kong as well as connections to the Mainland.
Such projects, which include the construction of several railways and an express railway between Guangzhou and Hong
Kong, will further enhance the flow of people and goods in Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta, enabling sustained
economic growth.
Within the next few years, the HKSAR Government will study, plan and construct the Tsim Sha Tsui Extension, the Ma On
Shan Rail Link, the Kowloon Southern Link and the Shatin-Central Link. Major highways such as the Deep Bay Link and
Route 9 between Tsing Yi and Sha Tin will also materialize.
Cross-boundary links, such as the Sheung Shui to Lok Ma Chau Spur Line, the Shenzhen Western Corridor, the
HK-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, two new boundary bridges at Lok Ma Chau-Huanggang and Sha Tau Kok, and the express-rail link
between
Hong Kong and Guangzhou will bring the territory and the Pearl River Delta closer.
The West Rail has nine stations, running through Nam Cheong in Sham Shui Po, Kwai Tsing, Tsuen Wan, Yuen Long and Tuen
Mun, embodying the longest tunnel link (5.5 km) and viaduct (13 km) and making it the largest infrastructure project in
Hong Kong in recent years.
The opening of West Rail followed 6 weeks of fault-free trial operations, during which average daily punctuality
reached 99%.
Charity rides were offered on December 17 and 18 to help passengers familiarize themselves with the new rail service
and to benefit local charitable organizations.
Top |
