Chan Mei-bo, the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, stated that the government is fully advancing the smart and green public transportation system project while also reviewing transportation-related charges and penalties. Several railway development plans, including the Tung Chung Line Extension, are expected to begin phased operations starting in 2027, while the Northern Link mainline aims for completion by 2034. These projects signify a new chapter in Hong Kong’s transport infrastructure, particularly with the cross-border railway projects in collaboration with Shenzhen and the low-altitude economic development initiatives set to commence planning and pilot implementation this year.
Mei Po Chan revealed that the Kai Tak Intelligent Green Collective Transport System project is scheduled for tendering in 2025, while related projects in East Kowloon and Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen are planned to commence tendering in 2026, with contracts awarded the following year. Additionally, the South Island Line (West Section) will undergo detailed planning this year.
The extension of the Tung Chung Line and Siu Ho Wan Station is set to officially launch in 2027, while preliminary works for the Northern Link Main Line have already begun. According to Chen Meibao, the survey and design process for the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Western Railway (Hung Shui Kiu to Qianhai) will also commence within this year. These projects aim to collectively create The Greater Bay Area on Track. The Northern Link Main Line spans a total of 10.7 kilometers and will feature three intermediate stations, significantly reducing travel time in the northwest New Territories.
In addition, Chen Meibao mentioned that a review of parking fees, traffic violation fines, and tunnel charges is actively underway, with plans to submit related consultations to the Legislative Council in the second quarter. Meanwhile, the government is collaborating with the Environment and Ecology Bureau and is expected to propose a phased review of electric private car licensing fees starting this month.
In the aviation sector, the first batch of Regulatory Sandbox pilot projects by Low-Altitude Economy Development Task Force is set to roll out between April and June, covering logistics and public services. Chan Meibao revealed that proposed amendments to relevant regulations will be submitted to the Legislative Council in about two months. These amendments will regulate drones weighing between 25 to 150 kilograms and authorize the Director-General of Civil Aviation to conduct Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) test flights under specific conditions that meet civil aviation safety requirements.
