Revised tunnel tolls delayed

The "time-varying tolls" mechanism at the three cross-harbor tunnels has been postponed for a week to December 17 to give authorities more time to help people prepare.

And December 10 falls on the first reformed District Council elections.

The commencement notice for the toll mechanism will be tabled at the Legislative Council tomorrow - the first day of its resumption of business - for vetting.

Administration officials said that the toll plan's commencement time for 5 am on December 17 will "allow sufficient time for carrying out extensive publicity work" to ensure an orderly implementation.

The new tolls mechanism will charge private cars HK$60 for the Western Harbour Crossing and HK$40 for the Cross Harbour Tunnel and Eastern Harbour Crossing during peak hours from Monday to Saturday to reduce traffic congestion.

Legco member Ben Chan Han-pan, chairman of the transport panel, said he would not speculate on the postponement being linked to the district council election.

However, he said, the week's delay would certainly help authorities prepare.