Smart mass transit system proposed for East Kowloon

Stacy Shi and Ayra Wang

The government has proposed building a 7-kilometer smart and green mass transit system from Choi Hung East to Yau Tong East by 2033, according to a paper presented to lawmakers yesterday.

The government estimates it will cost HK$262.5 million to conduct the necessary investigation, design and site work for this "Smart and Green Mass Transit System in East Kowloon."

The proposed transportation project includes: 6km of elevated viaducts, 1km of tunnel, eight stations at Choi Hung East, Choi Wan, Shun Lee, Shun On, Sau Mau Ping, Po Tat, Ma Yau Tong and Yau Tong East, and the construction of a depot and supporting infrastructure like signal systems, civil works, landscaping, roads and drainage

The plan also calls for pedestrian linkages connecting the new Choi Hung East and Yau Tong East stations to the existing Choi Hung and Yau Tong stations.

Authorities also plan to invite expressions of interest from suppliers and operators in the second half of this year, while simultaneously conducting investigations, designs, financial assessments and tender preparations.

Subject to the EOI feedback and financial analysis, the government will determine the financing approach, potentially drawing on the "rail plus property" model used for other rail projects.

"We strive to invite tenders for construction of the Proposed Project in 2026 with an aim to award the contract in 2027," the paper said.

"We estimate that the entire investigation and design work, including financial assessment, tendering, tender evaluation and award of the contract, will be completed within approximately 3.5 years."

However lawmaker Frankie Ngan Man-yu has urged the government to replace the tunnel plan with an elevated viaduct instead.

He argued that this would "accelerate construction by eliminating the need for specialized tunnel expertise and avoiding hillside stabilization and explosion work required for the tunnel."

Ngan also suggested adding a Lam Tin North Station to the proposed line to better serve nearby housing estates and expand the potential ridership.

stacy.shi@singtaonewscorp.com

ayra.wang@singtaonewscorp.com