Tenders for Kai Tak mass transit system to open next year

Stacy Shi

The Transport and Logistics Bureau has announced that tenders for a smart and sustainable mass transit system in Kai Tak will be invited next year - a year ahead of schedule.

This system will link the Kai Tak runway area to the Kai Tak MTR station and is expected to be completed within three years of its commencement.

The bureau said it had invited letters of intent from both local and international transit system suppliers and operators for the Kowloon East and Kai Tak projects in August.

Also, they plan to invite letters of intent for the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen project by the end of this year.

To accelerate the construction timeline, the bureau is implementing an innovative approach that synchronizes certain statutory procedures with the detailed design phase.

"We will require the contractor to complete the construction no later than three years after work begins, utilizing a design for manufacturing and assembly, as well as a multi-trade integrated mechanical, electrical, and plumbing method," the bureau said.

This strategy aims to facilitate project completion about one year earlier than initially projected, allowing for an earlier start to system operations.

The bureau also stated its goal to invite tenders for the East Kowloon and Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen projects in 2026.

Before construction can begin, the bureau will undertake preparatory work, which includes developing the necessary regulatory framework and legislation for the new system's operation.

A series of surveys and research tasks will also be conducted, such as evaluating project alignment and station locations, formulating design options, analyzing feedback from suppliers and operators, preparing for gazetting, conducting financial assessments, and planning land use and procurement arrangements.

stacy.shi@singtaonewscorp.com