Special traffic and transport arrangements for International Chinese New Year Night Parade

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     The Transport Department today (February 9) reminded the public that special traffic and transport arrangements would be implemented in Tsim Sha Tsui on Sunday (February 14) to facilitate the International Chinese New Year Night Parade.

     The parade will start at 8pm at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre and travel via Canton Road, Haiphong Road, Nathan Road and Salisbury Road to New World Centre.

     To make way for the parade, a series of special traffic and transport arrangements will be implemented in phases in Tsim Sha Tsui area from 5pm, subject to the actual traffic and crowd conditions.  The arrangements are as follows:

* Road closures and traffic diversion will be implemented in Tsim Sha Tsui area south of Austin Road and Cheong Wan Road. Additional road closures may be implemented depending on the crowd situation. Motorists are advised to pay attention to the traffic signs and directions of the Police.

* Regarding public transport services, about 36 bus routes and seven green minibus routes operating along the closed roads will be temporarily diverted. The concerned public transport operators will put up notices to inform passengers of the arrangements.

* All bus stops, public light bus stands, taxi stands, roadside parking spaces and car parks affected by the road closures will be temporarily suspended.

     Members of the public who intend to go to the affected area are urged to plan their journey early and allow more travelling time to cater for unexpected delays.  Motorists are advised to avoid driving to the affected areas.  In case of traffic congestion, motorists should exercise tolerance and patience, and take heed of instructions given by Police officers on site.  Public transport commuters should pay attention to the route diversions and suspension of stops.

     The Transport Department and the Police will closely monitor the traffic situation, and will implement appropriate measures as necessary. The public should watch out for the latest traffic news broadcast via the TV and radio stations.

     Details of the special traffic and transport arrangements are available on the department's website (www.td.gov.hk).

Ends/Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Issued at HKT 15:40

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