Special traffic arrangements for Lunar New Year's Eve

     The Transport Department has reminded people that special traffic and transport arrangements will be implemented to facilitate smooth traffic flow on Saturday (Lunar New Year's Eve).

     Special Public Transport Services on Lunar New Year Eve (January 28):

* 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

     "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."

     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 (http://www.td.gov.hk). 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 situation.

Ends/Thursday, January 26, 2006
Issued at HKT 13:16