Transport chief reports smooth operations for Tai Lam Tunnel on first working day

Entering the first working day with new tolls following the government takeover, the traffic conditions in the Tai Lam Tunnel have met expectations, according to Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan.

On the first working day following the implementation of new tolls after the government takeover, the traffic conditions within the Tai Lam Tunnel have aligned with expectations, Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan said on Monday.

After a morning inspection, Chan reported a 10 percent increase in traffic flow from midnight to around 6am, projecting a five percent reduction in traffic on Tuen Mun Road during peak hours to alleviate congestion.

Chan also highlighted that the total traffic volume observed yesterday (Jun 1) was higher than the average for a typical Sunday.

Slight congestion during peak hours

Despite slight congestion during peak hours, a commuter traveling from Tin Shui Wai to Tsing Yi reported relatively smooth traffic, with delays of approximately 15 minutes. 

Although he expressed concerns that future traffic could potentially double, he indicated that he would continue to opt for the Tai Lam Tunnel for his future commutes.

Another driver expressed excitement over the weekend toll reduction, which resulted in cost savings. He anticipated increased congestion at various times; however, he stated that he would not consider alternative routes.

A taxi driver also acknowledged the benefits of the reduced tolls, indicating he would recommend that customers utilize the Tai Lam Tunnel rather than Tuen Mun Road for a more expedient journey.

Toll reduction benefits Yuen Long residents: industry

Hong Kong, China Automobile Association honorary life president Ringo Lee Yiu-pui believed the toll reduction would benefit the Yuen Long residents who used to travel via Tuen Mun Road or Tai Po Road due to the Tunnel's prior high tolls. 

With the implementation of HKeToll, Lee predicted the likelihood of congestion is relatively low. 

In light of the Transport Department's plan to reassess the tolls after a year, Lee suggested to evaluate traffic growth at the Tunnel as well as the traffic flow on Tune Mun Road.

If the growth remains below 20 percent, there may be additional room for further toll reductions, Lee added.

Lawmaker's concern on Yuen Long traffic

Lawmaker Ben Chan Hang-pan, who also inspected the traffic at the Tai Lam Tunnel Bus Interchange, attributed the morning congestion to a traffic accident, believing the Tunnel capacity can handle the gradually increasing traffic flow in the future. 

However, he raised concerns regarding roads like Ting Kau Bridge and their capacity to handle the projected increase in traffic volume in Yuen Long, urging authorities to monitor surrounding road conditions.

Chan also suggested the government implement traffic adjustment measures, including the installation of traffic lights and junctions to mitigate traffic congestion, as well as toll adjustment review after six months.