Unfamiliar drivers cross double white lines on new Central Kowloon Bypass

On the first working day after the Yau Ma Tei section of the Central Kowloon Bypass opened, some drivers unfamiliar with the layout illegally crossed double white lines to change lanes.

Around 8am today, traffic towards Kai Tak Stadium remained light and smooth. 

However, by 9am during peak hours, drivers heading to Kowloon Tong risked accidents by crossing the solid lines despite Transport Department cones placed at exit branches.

After exiting Kai Tak Tunnel, the four-lane route splits—the left lane serves Kai Tak and Kowloon Bay, the second left leads to Kwun Tong Business Area via Kwun Tong Bypass, and the two right lanes go to the Cruise Terminal.

Many motorists realized late they were in the wrong lane, veering straight onto Kwun Tong Bypass and merging left illegally.

Taxi drivers told reporters that it is estimated that the speed of travel from the West Kowloon to Kowloon Bay will be significantly improved via the Yau Ma Tei section of the Central Kowloon Bypass. 

Though Kwun Tong peak-hour congestion at 8am and 6pm persists, it is expected to ease once linked to the Tseung Kwan O-Lam Tin Tunnel.