Lok Ma Chau Taxi/GMB trial scheme smoothly launched

The trial schemes for taxi and green minibus (GMB) entering Lok Ma Chau Control Point (LMCCP) during the overnight period (12 midnight - 6.30 am) have been running smoothly since launching from 0.00 am today (March 20).

At 0000 hours, Commissioner for Transport, Mr Robert Footman, observed the first day operation at LMCCP where passengers could take urban and NT taxis or GMB service at the extended period.

A Transport Department (TD) spokesman said: "Special traffic and transport arrangements in LMCCP and San Tin Public Transport Interchange (STPTI) have been well co-ordinated to facilitate a smooth flow of traffic and passengers."

Under the trial schemes, passengers may from today take urban or New Territories taxis, GMB 44B (LMCCP - Tuen Mun Ferry Pier via STPTI) or GMB 79S (LMCCP - Tin Shui Wai) to and from LMCCP during the extended period overnight.

Taxis carrying passengers can enter the taxi drop-off point but have to leave as soon as passengers have been dropped off. Empty taxis are required to obtain tickets at the taxi holding areas at STPTI to enter the Control Point.

The spokesman added: "Between 12 midnight and 6.30 am, passengers are not required to pay at STPTI but should pay a fare of $7.0 at the boarding point at LMCCP when boarding again after immigration clearance. Apart from the overnight period, all northbound passengers have to pay at STPTI."

The spokesman said that information flyers about the schemes would be provided at LMCCP and STPTI. Drivers and passengers should also pay attention to on-site notice and TD would monitor the situation and implement suitable measures to facilitate smooth boundary crossing if needed.

End/Thursday, March 20, 2003