To address the growing popularity of the East Dam at High Island Reservoir, a favorite among tourists and frequently mentioned on Xiaohongshu, the government has teamed up with the local minibus operator to extend the Green Minibus (GMB) Route 9A services to weekdays during the upcoming Labour Day Golden Week. This move is designed to manage the anticipated increase in visitors and enhance their experience at this scenic spot.

(File Photo)

The government has observed a significant rise in the number of visitors to the East Dam, especially during recent weekends and the Ching Ming Festival holiday. Many visitors have been arriving by taxi in the morning, leading to severe traffic congestion on Sai Kung Man Yee Road and, consequently, longer travel times for the GMB Route No. 9A.

Under normal circumstances, GMB Route No. 9A operates only on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, transporting visitors between Pak Tam Chung and the East Dam from 9.30am to 6.40pm, and back from 10am to 7pm, with minibuses departing every 15 to 20 minutes.

To alleviate congestion, the Transport Department (TD) and the minibus operator have decided to extend the service to weekdays during Golden Week on a trial basis, depending on passenger demand.

The TD will install a message sign near the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) Pak Tam Chung Barrier to update visitors on current traffic conditions. Additionally, to improve crowd management at the East Dam, the TD will place a sign indicating the GMB service stand, the minibus operator will adjust the passenger queuing direction, and the AFCD will install a temporary railing at the GMB service stand to organize the queue better.

Moreover, the Water Supplies Department (WSD) is finalizing temporary improvements on Sai Kung Man Yee Road to better support two-way traffic.

The AFCD, in collaboration with the Tourism Commission and the Hong Kong Tourism Board, will promote alternative hiking trails within Hong Kong's country parks and provide tourists with relevant hiking guidelines.

To maintain safety and order, the police will deploy officers to manage traffic and assist with pedestrian flow during peak times, and take enforcement actions against any illegal activities by taxi drivers.

(Prashan Limbu)

Route 9A minibus service expanded to ease traffic at East Dam during Golden Week