The Transport & Housing Bureau says it is seriously concerned about the substantial adjustment of the cost estimate of the Sha Tin to Central Link advance works by the MTR Corporation.
In response to media enquiries on the latest cost estimate of the works today, the bureau said the Highways Department will ask the MTRC to submit further information and will critically examine the latest cost estimate with the assistance of its monitoring and verification consultant.
The MTRC notified the Highways Department on August 12 the latest cost estimate of the works has grown by $1.274 billion.
The bureau said, although major infrastructure projects can face unforeseen difficulties during construction, the Government believes the MTRC bears the greatest responsibility and duty to control project cost and manage risks.
It must fulfil its role in supervising and co-ordinating its contractors, complete the project as scheduled, and notify the Government about the latest cost estimate in a timely manner.
