TD continues to monitor cross-harbour traffic

         From midnight to 8 pm, the number of vehicles using the Cross Harbour Tunnel (CHT) has risen by about 5 per cent, which was around 4700 vehicles and the Western Harbour Tunnel by around 18 per cent more which was about 3800 vehicles when compared with a normal Sunday. On the other hand, the number of vehicles using EHC has dropped by about 21300 which was around 39 per cent.

        The Transport Department activated the Emergency Transport Co-ordination Centre and maintained close communication between the Police Force, franchised bus companies and the management companies of the tunnels.  

       Speaking at a press briefing this evening, Deputy Commissioner for Transport, Mr Lau Ka-keung, said although the traffic flow on both sides of the harbour was normal so far, TD would remain vigilant over the next few days and  keep on       reviewing its contingency arrangements and make adjustments when needed.  

       Mr Lau said as a result of changes in traveling habits of motorists and road users, the department anticipated that CHT traffic would continue to be busy on May 2. He said the Department would continue to closely monitor the traffic situation and communicate closely with parties concerned.

       He appealed to the public to plan their trips early in the coming days and in particular on Tuesday, the first working day since the EHC toll increase.

       He also reminded the public that

* They should allow more time for travel and choose their most suitable routeing.

* They should also attend to the weather condition and check traffic conditions by listening to radio/TV broadcast or visit TD website before starting their journey.

* Students attending public examinations should allow more time to travel to their examination centres.

* Use public transport, in particular, MTR and KCR.

* Avoiding using CHT in peak hours, and use alternate routeings when serious congestion along major roads to CHT occurs. Be patient and compile with directions given by frontline Police officers.

* For enquiries, please call 1823.

Ends/Sunday, May 1, 2005