MTR contractor under scrutiny for using non-contractual mainland wall tiles in Tung Chung Line extension project

Concerns have been raised after reports emerged that a contractor for the under-construction MTR Tung Chung Line Extension used mainland Chinese wall tiles in station equipment rooms instead of the German brand specified in its contract. The MTR Corporation has launched an investigation into the matter.

Recent reports indicate that for the Tung Chung East Station on the MTR's Tung Chung Line Extension, the main contractor utilized wall tiles manufactured in mainland China for equipment room walls, deviating from the German brand explicitly required by the contract.

In response to queries, the MTR Corporation confirmed it had previously received a letter of complaint raising concerns about materials used in the contract. The rail operator stated that it immediately began follow-up work upon receiving the letter, querying the main contractor and demanding a comprehensive report on the situation. The MTR has pledged to conduct independent checks and verification of this report.

According to the MTR, the materials in question are non-structural partition wall tiles used in station equipment rooms. These were procured and installed by a subcontractor, hired by the main contractor through a tender process, with the work having commenced in June this year.

The main contractor has already assured the MTR that the specific batch of tiles mentioned in the complaint will not be used in the ongoing project to address the concerns raised. The MTR stated it will continue to work with the main contractor, overseeing and directing them to ensure the project is completed on time, to the required quality standards, and in accordance with the contract specifications.