Transcript of remarks by STH on Tuen Ma Line
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Reporter: Can the Secretary or the CEO tell us what made it possible for the early opening of the Tuen Ma Line because it was originally expected to open in the next quarter? And earlier Mr Kam mentioned that there will be some discounts offered to passengers, will you let us know what they are? Secondly, about the cross-harbour section, how optimistic are you that the MTR will be able to reduce the delay?
Secretary for Transport and Housing: As regards the timing of the Tuen Ma Line commissioning, I have to say that both the Government and the MTR Corporation have been working very hard during the past year with a view to commissioning the Tuen Ma Line as soon as possible. We appreciate very much the expectation of the people who are looking forward to taking a ride on this particular new line because it connects to all other railway lines, providing flexibility, convenience and also saving in time. That is why we have been working very hard to move the commissioning target a quarter earlier.
As regards the north-south line (Hung Hom to Admiralty section), as we have just mentioned, both the Government and the MTR Corporation are working together with best endeavour with a view to expediting the commissioning of the north-south line (Hung Hom to Admiralty section) as early as possible. We have to let you know that there are challenges that we have been tackling and we are hopeful to gain some lost time in the next year or so. Today we are unable to tell how fast or how much we can move forward. But rest assured, we will make our best endeavour to do it.
(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)
Ends/Friday, May 28, 2021
Issued at HKT 16:35
Issued at HKT 16:35
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