Special traffic and transport arrangements for Lunar New Year fireworks

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     The Transport Department today (February 9) announced that a series of temporary traffic and transport arrangements would be implemented in Central, Wan Chai, Causeway Bay, The Peak, Tsim Sha Tsui and Hung Hom to facilitate the Lunar New Year fireworks display next Monday (February 15).

     The arrangements are as follows:

1. Road closures and traffic diversions will be implemented in phases in the vicinity of Central, Wan Chai, Causeway Bay, The Peak, Tsim Sha Tsui and Hung Hom Bypass. Motorists are advised to pay attention to the traffic signs and directions of the Police.

2. Public transport services:

* Most of the public transport services including MTR Island Line, Tsuen Wan Line, Kwun Tong Line, Tseung Kwan O Line, Tung Chung Line, Ma On Shan Line, East Rail Line, and Peak Tramways will enhance services according to passenger demand. The service of some bus routes will also be augmented.

* Bus routes and green minibus routes operating in areas affected by road closures and traffic diversions will be diverted. The Cross Boundary Coach Service between Wan Chai Ferry Pier and Huanggang will also be diverted. In addition, services of some ferry routes will be re-scheduled or cancelled. The concerned public transport operators will put up notices to inform passengers of the temporary arrangements.

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

4. All vehicles will be prohibited from entering the carparks and hotels within the closed roads, and vehicles parked in these carparks and hotels will not be permitted to leave until the roads are re-opened.

     Members of the public are also reminded that the Wan Chai Waterfront Promenade has been closed for construction works. Those who intend to watch fireworks display at the Wan Chai waterfront are advised to go to other areas.

     Members of the public who intend to go to the affected areas 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 the police on site. Public transport commuters should pay attention to the route diversions and suspension of stops. The public should watch out for the latest traffic news broadcast via TV and radio stations.

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

Ends/Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Issued at HKT 15:55

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