Commuters concerned impact of roundabout converted into four-way intersection in Kwun Tong

The new four-way intersection in Kwun Tong had a rough start on Monday, the first working day after the roundabout connecting Wai Yip Street, Hoi Yuen Road, and Kwun Tong Ferry Pier Public Transport Interchange was converted into a signal-controlled junction yesterday.

There was some congestion during peak hours, with a bus driver, named Kwok, commenting that the intersection was less convenient than the previous roundabout.

He noted that it took about 20 minutes for the bus to reach Kwun Tong Ferry Pier from the town centre, which initially took several minutes.

Others also expressed concerns about the new arrangement.

A minibus driver said a longer detour is needed to reach the minibus stop, and that the road signage is unclear amid ongoing construction in the area.

One of them, surnamed Lui, complained that he spent around half an hour on Hoi Yuen Road due to the congestion.

Another bus driver, surnamed Yau, acknowledged that the roundabout used to be more easily congested, but he believes the new intersection may still struggle with traffic during rush hours.

The 60-year-old Wai Yip Street/Hoi Yuen Road roundabout was converted into a new four-way intersection under the government's "Kwun Tong Action Area" plan. 

It is part of the Kai Tak Fantasy project, in which the government aims to improve traffic congestion in Kwun Tong. Future improvements include building a footbridge across Wai Yip Street to better connect the Kwun Tong MTR station and promenade.