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The Transport Department (TD) today (October 19) reminded members of the public that a vehicle and public procession would be held tomorrow (October 20) afternoon. The traffic in West Kowloon, Central and Sheung Shui in the New Territories will be affected.
The vehicle procession will be conducted in two batches of vehicles. The first batch of dozens of vehicles will depart from Cheung Sha Wan at about 3pm heading for the Central Ferry Piers via the Western Harbour Crossing (WHC). These vehicles will be stationed at the Central Ferry Piers until the evening peak hours before returning to Cheung Sha Wan via WHC. They will then proceed to Sheung Shui. The second batch of dozens of vehicles will depart Cheung Sha Wan at about 3.30pm heading for Central via WHC. These vehicles will cruise around in Central District.
The TD anticipates that due to the vehicle and public procession, the traffic in Central District, the Central Ferry Piers and along Hong Kong Island North will become busier than normal. As the procession will last until the evening peak hours, serious traffic congestion might occur and vehicle queues will take longer to disperse.
On public transport services, more than 90 Hong Kong Island and cross harbour bus routes, 19 Hong Kong Island green minibus services and tram services will be affected. The frequencies will become erratic and the journey time will be lengthened. These public transport services might be diverted, truncated or suspended, if necessary. Passengers are advised to pay attention to the suspension and relocation of stops due to route diversion.
Motorists are advised not to drive to the affected or congested areas, in particular Central District, unless necessary. They are advised to plan their journeys in advance, use alternative routes and allow more travelling time to cater for unexpected delays. They are also advised to be patient in case of traffic congestion and follow the instructions given by the Police officer on site.
Depending on the prevailing traffic situation, the Police may step up ad hoc traffic and transport management measures within a short period of time. The TD will closely monitor the traffic situation and maintain close contact with the Police and public transport operators. Members of the public are advised to be alert to the latest traffic news disseminated by the media.
Ends/Monday, October 19, 2009
Issued at HKT 18:27
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