19
61.
In the New
Territories, the
dual-carriageway
section of Route One between Sha Tin and Fanling will be largely completed by the middle of next year. Work has also begun on widening Route Two, which connects Fanling, Yuen Long and Tuen Mun, making it a dual-carriageway road with separate service roads.
62.
Congestion around the Cross-Harbour Tunnel has been temporarily eased by the introduction of the passage tax, but, in the longer term, an additional crossing is
needed. Our conclusions are that at least a a four-lane road
connection is required, and that this would be best provided by a submerged tube tunnel linking Quarry Bay and Cha Kwo Ling. Developers will shortly be invited to make proposals for the construction, operation and financing of this important project.
63.
(ii) Cross-border Links
Road links with China are also being improved. Two new bridges, at Sha Tau Kok and at Man Kam To are close
to completion. The next step will be the construction of the first stage of a bridge at Lok Ma Chau. This will ultimately link up with the New Territories circular road, as the main thoroughfare for cross-border road traffic.
64.
(iii) Public Transport
The major development in our public transport system next year will be the opening of the first part of the Mass Transit Railway's Island Line from Chai Wan to Admiralty. This will be followed a year later by the second stage from Admiralty to Sheung Wan.
/65. The
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