HK cancels New Year's Eve fireworks; plans alternative countdown event

The government announced on Wednesday that the traditional New Year's Eve fireworks will be cancelled in light of the deadly Tai Po fire, replaced by a new countdown event at Chater Road Pedestrian Precinct in Central, with extended border hours and enhanced transport for holiday crowds.

The Tourism Board will announce full event details later.

Authorities coordinated with Shenzhen to prolong New Year's Eve port operations, pending national approval.

Chief Secretary for Administration Eric Chan Kwok-ki chaired an interdepartmental meeting to oversee preparations for the surge in visitors during the New Year holidays, coinciding with mainland China's three-day break starting January 1.

Measures include enhanced coordination of ports and transport, close liaison with tourism stakeholders, crowd management, real-time information, and smooth public services.

The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and Lok Ma Chau/Huanggang ports will run 24 hours as usual on New Year's Eve, with reduced staff leave, extra counters, and channels for faster clearance.

MTR will extend East Rail Line service to Lo Wu, matching port hours, run most lines overnight, and set up bus routes between Sheung Shui and San Tin Huang Bus Terminus for 24-hour port access.

Post-event transport will increase at countdown sites and major ports, with contingency plans for dedicated public lanes if needed, and operators reserving extra vehicles and staff.

Police will deploy officers for traffic control and crowd management at popular spots like Sai Kung's High Island Reservoir East Dam during peak visitor times.