The breakthrough of Nam Wan Tunnel, a key component of the $15-billion Route 8 linking Tsing Yi and Sha Tin, has been completed on time, safely and environmentally, Permanent Secretary for Environment, Transport & Works Lo Yiu-ching says.

Nam Wan Tunnel is a 1.2km twin-tube tunnel on the southern part of Tsing Yi from Sai Tso Wan to Nam Wan Kok. Upon completion, it will be another toll-free tunnel on Tsing Yi in addition to the Cheung Tsing Tunnel.

Considerate construction: An artist's impression of the Nam Wan Tunnel East Portal (left), and the blast doors (centre) constructed to reduce nusiance to road users during blasting. Permanent Secretary for Environment, Transport & Works Lo Yiu-ching (right) and guests officiate at the tunnel breakthrough ceremony.

Speaking at the breakthrough ceremony today, Mr Lo said the 15km strategic route comprises the Nam Wan, Eagle's Nest and Sha Tin Height Tunnels, Stonecutters Bridge, viaducts and interchanges.

Targetted for completion by 2008, Route 8 will link up busy container ports and the airport with the North East New Territories. It will also connect the Lantau Link to the West Kowloon Highway and provide much needed relief for other road networks and tunnels.

Good waste management

Nearly all 550,000 cubic metres of tunnel spoil will be reused in the Penny's Bay Reclamation Project or processed into aggregates at a local quarry.

Mr Lo said: "This is no doubt the result of good planning work and site practices which will set an example for the industry on good waste management and sustainable development."

.

Other green measures taken to minimise noise and nuisance to road users and the public include:

* a 7.5-metre tall noise barrier, and continuous monitoring to ensure noise and vibration limits are not exceeded during tunnel blasting;

* blast doors for any blasting conducted near roads; and,

* 40 water sprinklers and washing facilities at all exits for vehicles to use before leaving the construction site.