The transport chief stressed that insufficient land or parking spaces should not impede the implementation progress of the Southbound Travel for Guangdong Vehicles scheme, as the government will draw on the experience from the Northbound Travel Scheme to manage vehicle quantities, particularly in urban areas.
Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan made the statement after lawmaker Ben Chan Hang-pan raised concerns that Hong Kong's capacity for southbound vehicles is significantly lower than that of Zhuhai despite the crucial need for mutual integration.
Mable Chan said the government aims to announce the details of the Southbound Travel for Guangdong Vehicles this year, and highlighted that she will lead a team to engage with Guangdong officials regarding the Scheme's arrangements.
She noted that collaborations with Guangdong are underway to prepare for the entry of vehicles into urban areas of Hong Kong, with consideration of various aspects including total volume control, port clearance, risk management and enhancement of supporting facilities.
"We are also formulating publicity information covering application procedures, driving rules and ancillary facilities," she added.
Mable Chan asserted that the Southbound Travel Scheme must meet public expectations and provide advantages to the community at large, before the government considers obviating the need to impose restricted zones or roads for Guangdong vehicles.
"We need to ensure that the Southbound Travel Scheme is implemented in a prudent manner while enhancing speed and efficiency," she added.
Transport sector lawmaker Frankie Yick Chi-ming expressed concern regarding the potential for mainland drivers to engage in illegal ride-hailing services in Hong Kong, suggesting that the implementation of the Scheme may heighten this risk.
In response, Mable Chan affirmed that the government remains attentive to feedback from all societal sectors, emphasizing that authorities will thoroughly address the concerns raised prior to granting approval for the Scheme.
(Judy Cui)
