Tunnels to remain fully open during coming holidays

The Transport Department today (Wednesday) announces that the six government tunnels will remain fully open during the Lunar New Year Holidays between February 4 and February 7, 2000.

A spokesman for the department said no tunnel tubes would be closed for maintenance and radio broadcasts of safety measures would also be stepped up.

These are additional control and safety measures on tunnel operations during the holidays.

The six government tunnels are Cross-Harbour Tunnel, Aberdeen Tunnel, Lion Rock Tunnel, Airport Tunnel, Shing Mun Tunnels and Tseung Kwan O Tunnel.

The spokesman added that operators of the four private tunnels - Western Harbour Crossing, Eastern Harbour Crossing, Tate's Cairn Tunnel and Tai Lam Tunnel - would take the same measures as far as they could arrange.

He said motorists also have a part to play in avoiding accidents inside tunnels by observing the following safety guidelines:

	do not follow too close to the vehicle in front;
	observe the speed limit;
	keep in lane;
	observe traffic ahead;
	use dipped headlights;
	avoid wearing earphones or using mobile telephones when driving; and
	do not drink any alcohol before and/or when driving.
	The spokesman urged motorists to drive with care and patience inside tunnels as well as on open roads.

Wednesday, February 2, 2000