ENG-1988 — Page 254

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Transport

THE major objectives of Hong Kong's transport policy are to maintain the mobility of passengers and freight, both within the territory and through its port and airport, and to ensure that future demands for transport infrastructure and services are met.

The transport systems are stretched by the fast-growing economy, the rapid increase in international traffic by sea and air, and by traffic from across the border. The efficient operation of these systems involves a never-ending cycle of forecasting, planning and constructing new capacity. In addition, much reliance is placed on the private sector to provide and operate transport facilities, both existing and new.

During 1988, the government spent $2.1 billion on building roads and highways. And forecasts indicate that demands on transport infrastructure and service will continue to grow rapidly in the years ahead.

Some important links in the road system are also being built by the private sector, most notable being the Tate's Cairn Tunnel, work on which began in mid-1988 and which will be Hong Kong's longest tunnel when it opens in 1991, and the Eastern Harbour Crossing to be opened in 1989.

The new light rail system constructed by the Kowloon-Canton Railway Corpora- tion began service during the year. The system opened to passenger traffic in the north-western New Territories in September. And during the year, the Peak Tramway funicular railway celebrated its 100th year of operation. Also during the year Hong Kong achieved the highest throughput of containers of any port in the world. A contract to construct and operate a further new container terminal (Terminal 7) was awarded.

Comprehensive Study

The Second Comprehensive Transport Study, which began in late 1986, is nearing completion. It will recommend a transport investment programme for road and rail, and will set out proposals for meeting the demand for internal movement up to the year 2001. The proposals will be presented for public discussion in a Green Paper to be published in 1989. Among the issues to be raised is that of road congestion, which is slowing the movement of passengers and goods.

Major planning studies are also in progress to forecast the demand for external transport infrastructure, and to develop strategies to meet those demands. A consultancy study which began in mid-October 1987 is looking into the capacity for development at Hong Kong International Airport.

The Port and Airport Development Strategy study, which started in late 1987, is examining options for the development of a new airport and additional port facilities to cater for international traffic well into the 21st century.