Second round of consultations for Shatin transport plan to start soon

In response to media enquiries, the Transport Department says it will conduct the second round of public consultations on the "New Public Transport Plan" this month or next (April or May), in view of the commissioning of the KCRC East Rail Extensions (Ma On Shan Rail and Tsim Sha Tsui Extension) later this year.

Following the experiences with Tseung Kwan O Extension and West Rail commissioning, some passengers are expected to choose rail services. Hence, the department needs to formulate a plan in advance to prepare for change in travel patterns in Shatin. The plan aims to provide a choice of services and to enhance the efficiency of the transport network. It can also alleviate traffic congestion and bring environmental benefits.

A spokesman said the department was keeping an open attitude and would continue to communicate with the public, after conducting six Area Consultative Forums in Shatin early last month during the first round of consultations.

"The Transport Department has consulted the concerned locals on the proposed plan. We are now carefully studying their views, together with those collected during the six forums so that appropriate revisions can be made to the proposed plan.

"Our target is still to confirm the service arrangements in mid-2004. This will provide sufficient time for transport operators to redeploy resources, and for us to conduct publicity for the public before the commissioning of the new rail. This will avoid unnecessary confusion to passengers," he said.

"We want to reiterate that we shall closely monitor changes in travel patterns after commissioning of the new rail, before implementing adjustments in phases. It is also our intention that there will be no major adjustment within the first week of the commissioning of East Rail Extensions.

"Passengers will still be able to select their preferred transport services," the spokesman added.

Ends/Monday, April 5, 2004