The Legislative Council approved a funding application of HK$262.5 million for the smart and green mass transit system project in East Kowloon on Monday, with the site investigation and design work pending review from the Finance Committee for deliberations.
The proposed 7-km long mass transit system will connect the uphill areas of Kwun Tong and link up a total of eight railway stations – including Choi Hung East, Choi Wan, Shun Lee, Shun On, Sau Mau Ping, Po Tat, Ma Yau Tong and Yau Tong East.
Lawmaker Michael Tien Puk-sun inquired whether the government would prioritize fare pricing as a factor when reviewing bidding from interested parties, as well as calling for an inflation-linked fare adjustment formula to be introduced.
Authorities said they will introduce a fare adjustment mechanism and exchange views with the potential operators in the second half of the year.
Another lawmaker, Bill Tang Ka-piu, is concerned about the convenience of residents, suggesting a tunnel passing through Lam Tin North with a station being set on Pik Wan Road.
He also stated that the “Rail-plus-Property development” model cannot be applied to the project, as it would affect the construction progress and increase costs.
The government aims to invite expressions of interest from potential suppliers and operators in the second half of this year, with a target to begin construction in 2027 and complete the project no later than 2033.
Director of Highways Tony Yau Kwok-ting said China’s vehicle giants BYD and CRRC Corporation have expressed preliminary interest in bidding on the project.
