Chief Executive John Lee announced that the Government will take forward three major road schemes and three strategic railway projects to drive and support the city’s development.

In his policy speech delivered today, Mr Lee noted that the six projects, which will bring about a highly interconnected and accessible road network and rail system, will help the Government pursue the principle of accelerating infrastructure construction and increasing development capacity.

He pointed out that the transport infrastructure projects were recommended in the Strategic Studies on Railways & Major Roads beyond 2030.

One such project is the Northern Metropolis Highway. It will improve east‑west connectivity in New Territories North between Tin Shui Wai in the west and Kwu Tung North in the east via San Tin, and expand the Northern Metropolis’ transport capacity.

Another project includes the Shatin Bypass, a north‑south new trunk road connecting Tai Po and Kowloon West. It will give New Territories East residents a faster route to urban areas and relieve Tolo Highway’s traffic pressure.

Additionally, the Tseung Kwan O‑Yau Tong Tunnel entails the construction of the third road tunnel in Tseung Kwan O (TKO). It will synchronise with the development of TKO Area 137 and improve its external connections.

As for the Hong Kong‑Shenzhen Western Rail Link project, it will connect Hung Shui Kiu with Qianhai to facilitate travel between Hong Kong and Shenzhen, promoting connectivity and integrated development between the city and the Greater Bay Area.

Seeking to alleviate the pressure on Tuen Ma Line’s carrying capacity, the Central Rail Link, the 12th railway line, will connect Kam Tin in Yuen Long with Kowloon Tong via Kwai Chung.

Moreover, the goal of the TKO Line Southern Extension project, an extension of the MTR TKO Line southwards to TKO Area 137, is to enhance transport facilities in the area.

Other railway projects in the Northern Metropolis are in the pipeline, Mr Lee added.

While Kwu Tung Station of the Northern Link will be commissioned in 2027, the construction works for Hung Shui Kiu Station and the Northern Link Main Line will start within the current term of the Government.

At the same time, the Government is actively following up on the works concerning the Northern Link Spur Line’s linkage with the new Huanggang Port in Shenzhen via the Hong Kong‑Shenzhen Innovation & Technology Park in the Lok Ma Chau Loop.

Railway projects in other areas are also progressing well, Mr Lee reported, noting that the construction works of the Tung Chung Line Extension, Oyster Bay Station and Tuen Mun South Extension will commence next year.

Furthermore, the implementation of a number of road infrastructure projects under planning will be expedited, including Route 11, Tsing Yi‑Lantau Link and the Tuen Mun Bypass, as well as improvements to Lion Rock Tunnel.

Separately, the Government will continue to undertake smart mobility initiatives such as improving the Traffic Data Analytics System and exploring the feasibility of introducing smart motorways.

After completing a citywide Travel Characteristics Survey under the Traffic & Transport Strategy Study next year, the Government plans to roll out a number of pilot schemes including the trial of autonomous vehicles within 2024.

Its goal is to promulgate a Transport Strategy Blueprint in 2025 with a view to establishing a reliable, safe, smart, environmentally friendly and highly efficient transport system.

To conclude the transport section of the Policy Address, the Chief Executive announced that in view of the public’s positive reception, the special temporary measures under the Public Transport Fare Subsidy Scheme will be further extended for another six months.

Starting November 1 this year to April 30 next year, commuters will continue to get a subsidy amounting to one‑third of their monthly public transport expenses in excess of $200, subject to a maximum of $500.