New arrangements on cross-boundary coach services operating via Lok Ma Chau/Huanggang
The Transport Department (TD) today (August 14) issued the following statement on new arrangements on cross-boundary coach services operating via Lok Ma Chau and Huanggang control points:
"The cross-boundary coach operators have been running unauthorised trips and services via Lok Ma Chau and Huanggang control points. There are also a number of unauthorised short-haul services terminating at Huanggang control point. These unauthorised services have adversely affected the operation, public order and environment of both the Lok Ma Chau and Huanggang control points. This is not conducive to our maintaining smooth and safe cross-boundary traffic through the control points, especially cross-boundary freight traffic that is of paramount importance to our economic development. The unauthorised operations also cause traffic congestion and environment problems at the stopping points on the Hong Kong side.
"To ensure smooth and safe operation of the Lok Ma Chau and Huanggang control points, and unhindered freight traffic at all times, the Hong Kong and Mainland authorities have decided to adopt a two-pronged approach to better regulate the cross-boundary coach services using the Lok Ma Chau and Huanggang control points.
"With effect from August 16, 2004 (Monday), we would, on the one hand, further enhance the enforcement actions against unauthorised operations, which would include prosecution against violation of closed road restrictions at the control point and holding inquiry against those operators who have breached licensing conditions. On the other hand, to suitably meet the needs of cross-boundary travellers, we would introduce six regulated cross-boundary coach routes plying between the Huanggang control point and various parts of Hong Kong, including Mong Kok, Yau Tsim, Kwun Tong, Wan Chai, Tsuen Wan and Kam Sheung Road West Rail Station. These routes would be in operation commencing from 12 noon on August 16.
"These six routes would have fixed stopping points, routings and service schedules. Coaches running on these routes will have specific markings and clear destination signs for easy identification. Except the Kam Sheung Road West Rail Station route whose operating hours would tie in with those of the West Rail, these routes would operate 24 hours daily. The services would operate at 10 to 60-minute frequencies and charge fares from $20 to $50. Specific pick-up bays would be provided for these six routes at the Lok Ma Chau and Huanggang control points. Passengers are required to buy tickets at designated ticket-selling places before boarding and no cash or Octopus payment is allowed on board the coaches.
"Cross-boundary travellers are reminded that apart from the six new approved routes terminating at Huanggang, all other unauthorised cross-boundary coach services would stop operations. Travellers should therefore pay attention to the newly approved routes and service details (terminating points and service schedules etc.), and the pre-booking and ticketing arrangements of the new services. For service details, travellers may visit the website of the Transport Department www.info.gov.hk/td or call the Government hotline at 1823.
"Transport Department would like to warn travellers that the carrying capacities of the six new services terminating at Huanggang control point may not be able to meet all the existing demand currently met by unauthorised operations, in particular, for those popular routes operated in Mongkok, Tsuen Wan and Wan Chai areas. Since the new routes would operate on fixed timetables, departures may be full when passenger demand is high. Travellers should therefore adjust their traveling habits. They are strongly advised to familiarise themselves with the new service details and ticketing arrangements, plan their journeys early, and buy tickets in advance as far as possible. If tickets are not available, they will then have time to plan alternatively. They may consider using other cross-boundary public transport modes, including the high-capacity boundary train services to Lo Wu; the Lok Ma Chau to Huanggang Cross Boundary Shuttle Bus Services (the Yellow Bus) or cross-boundary ferries.
"The introduction of the new measures would improve the operation of the control points and cross-boundary traffic, and the efficiency of cross-boundary coach operation. Cross-boundary travellers would have properly regulated fixed-scheduled shuttle services and have orderly passage through the control points on both sides of the boundary. The Hong Kong and Mainland authorities would continue to regularly review the operation of cross-boundary coach services, to ensure the smooth and safe operation of the control points and the needs of cross-boundary travelers are suitably met."
Ends/Saturday, August 14, 2004