Special traffic arrangements for Lunar New Year holidays

The Transport Department will implement special arrangements to facilitate smooth traffic flow as holiday-makers travel to Lunar New Year celebrations throughout Hong Kong.

1. Special Public Transport Services on Lunar New Year Eve

	Overnight services will be provided for MTR Island Line, Tsuen Wan Line, Kwun Tong Line, Tseung Kwan O Line and Tung Chung Line
	Overnight services will be provided for East Rail between East Tsim Sha Tsui Station and Sheung Shui Station
	Overnight services will be provided for Ma On Shan Rail
	Overnight services will be provided for West Rail
	Overnight services for some LRT Routes will be provided
	Overnight service will be provided for tramways
	Special services of some franchised bus and mini-bus routes will be provided

2. Other events include:

	Flower markets, particularly the largest one at Victoria Park on Lunar New Year's Eve ;
	Special traffic and transport arrangements in Mong Kok Flower Market;
	Chinese New Year Night Parade on February 9;
	Lunar New Year Fireworks Display on February 10 ;
	Special traffic and transport arrangements for Che Kung Festival in Sha Tin;
	Special Traffic and Transport Arrangements for "Carlsberg Cup 2005" at Hong Kong Stadium, So Kon Po;
	Crowd control at the tourist site "Wishing Tree" at Lam Tsuen, Tai Po;

"As there will be partial or full road closures and traffic diversions on the affected roads, people are advised to make the best use of public transport services to avoid congestion and unnecessary delay," the spokesman said.

"Moreover, on-site police officers will implement the traffic and transport measures in phases according to the prevailing crowd and traffic situations at the vicinity. Drivers should avoid driving to the affected areas. Even so, they should drive with patience and follow police directions."

"Ferry services will be suspended before, during and after the fireworks display. Passengers are advised to check service details of the sailings with the ferry company."

Passengers heading for the airport and other cross-boundary checkpoints were reminded to allow more time if they had to pass through the affected areas in a bid to avoid delay.

Details of the special arrangements for the major Lunar New Year events have been uploaded onto the department's website. The public can also call the Government 24-hour hotline 1823 for details. They should also listen to radio/TV announcements about the latest traffic situations.

Ends/Monday, February 7,2005