The residents have expressed their relief after the northbound lane of Bride's Pool Road near Chung Pui in Tai Po, which was closed due to a landslide, has partially reopened and is now operating under single-lane two-way traffic control.
This reopening has facilitated the resumption of the special minibus route that connects Tai Po Market MTR Station with Wu Kau Tang, previously suspended during the road closure.
A construction worker, who is involved in maintaining the newly built public toilet near Bride's Pool Lion's Pavilion, shared his experience of the difficulties faced during the road's full closure. He mentioned that he had to resort to taking a taxi from Fanling via Luk Keng, costing him HK$130, to reach his workplace.
He expressed his appreciation for the restoration of the minibus service, highlighting its role in providing more flexible travel options. He also expressed satisfaction with the quick completion of repairs, which were done within four days, and noted that the slope reinforcement works at the landslide site have bolstered confidence in the road's safety.
Residents of Wu Kau Tang have also expressed their happiness with the return of the minibus service.
One resident mentioned how convenient the restored route was, especially when traveling to Tai Po for dim sum and groceries on the first morning minibus. He recalled the challenges during the closure, where commuters had to take detours via Fanling, which often risked making workers late.
The village head, Lee Mo-hing, stated that the minibus now operates at its usual hourly frequency, with the journey taking about 30 minutes. He emphasized the importance of this service for the villagers, particularly the seniors who rely on it for traveling to medical appointments or shopping. He pointed out that during the closures, diversions through Sha Tau Kok to Fanling MTR Station extended the travel time to 40 minutes.
Lee commended the government for its swift response and effective coordination, acknowledging the good communication between the North District Officer, the Transport Department, and the minibus operators.
