Lawmakers are confident that long queues for the green minibus route 9A that connects East Dam at High Island Reservoir will not recur thanks to the government’s early announcement to enhance services during Golden Week.

On a radio program on Tuesday, lawmaker for New Territories South East Stanley Li Sai-wing noted that route 9A (Pak Tam Chung - East Dam), which previously operated with four to five vehicles, has now increased to about 30.

The High Island Reservoir East Dam has recently gained popularity on mainland social media, resulting in a significant increase in visitors during recent weekends and the Ching Ming Festival, as noted by the government.

Li praised the Transport Department and the operator for their considerable efforts, expressing confidence that long queues for minibuses will not happen again, though he said this will ultimately depend on visitor numbers.

He suggested introducing electric sightseeing vehicles at East Dam- an approach adopted in mainland China to provide a more environmentally friendly option for transporting tourists.

Sai Kung District Councillor Christine Fong Kwok-shan believes that the trial service of route 9A on May 2 will help disperse visitors.

Fong advised locals to take advantage of quieter days to explore the area without competing with holiday tourists, and she expressed optimism that the traffic conditions will improve during Golden Week.

To accommodate the expected influx of visitors, the government announced on Monday that route 9A, which normally operates on weekends and public holidays, will extend service to weekdays during Golden Week on a trial basis.

The Hong Kong Police Force will also implement targeted measures, including deploying uniformed officers to direct traffic in strategic areas and combat any taxi drivers’ illegal acts, in the East Dam.

(Cheng Wong)

Expanded route 9A service to ease Golden Week queues at East Dam