TNAG-2791-FCO40-4030-Relations-between-Hong-Kong-and-China.-With-maps-1993 — Page 74

Phased Approach

7.

We believe

that even with 24-hour border opening,

there would still be

congestion and vehicle tailbacks at

certain times of the day. In addition we are not convinced

opening of all three crossing points can

that the 24-hour

yet be justified

on transport grounds. We suggest that a

phased approach be adopted.

Advancing Opening Times

8.

easing

Experience has shown that an effective measure for

early morning

times of the border.

congestion is to advance the opening

Advancing the opening hours at Man

Kam To in July last year reduced the early morning tailback

from 6 km to 2 km (para 8 of Annex A). We suggest that the

opening times of Lok Ma Chau and Man Kam To might be

brought forward to 6:00 a.m., subject to agreement with the

Chinese authorities.

However Immigration Department and

Customs & Excise Department anticipate major operational

problems in getting

below).

staff to the border so early (para 12

Opening More Kiosks at Lok Ma Chau

9.

The traffic projections

at Annex B show that the

vehicle throughput at Lok Ma Chau will begin to exceed the

capacity of the seven kiosks now in use in early 1994.

Excess demand will have to be met by manning more of the

fourteen kiosks provided at Lok Ma Chau (seven are in use

at present). In recognition of this, we recommend that two

more kiosks be manned as soon as possible in 1994, subject

to agreement with the Chinese authorities.