Central Kowloon Bypass opens with smooth traffic

The Central Kowloon Bypass (Yau Ma Tei Section) opened on Sunday with traffic flowing smoothly along the new route and existing major east-west trunk roads, the Transport Department said.

The department's emergency transport coordination centre is monitoring the situation. It noted that most drivers used the bypass safely by following traffic signs and road markings, though a small number were slower to choose lanes near the Kai Tak exit while adjusting to the new arrangements.

Authorities will closely monitor traffic on Monday, the first working day after opening, particularly during peak hours.

The department highlighted that some drivers on Kai Fuk Road had incorrectly entered a bus-only lane. Traffic measures there aim to separate vehicles from the bypass and Kai Tak Tunnel to reduce lane-changing and improve safety. Drivers from the Kai Tak Tunnel can now keep left and use Sheung Yee Road to access a further downstream tunnel entrance.

Temporary measures have been implemented at exit road branches to prevent unsafe driving, with additional road markings to be added. Motorists are advised to consult driving guides, observe on-site signs, drive carefully, reduce speed near new merging points, and maintain courtesy.