Ensure smooth flow at boundary checkpoints: CS

Chief Secretary Eric Chan has urged government agencies to ensure seamless travel at boundary checkpoints following reports of lengthy queues. This comes after social media footage showed significant delays, particularly for evening crossings into Shenzhen. The bottleneck extended to San Tin Highway, and numerous northbound travelers faced congestion in urban areas, including those en route to Hong Kong for Halloween events or a concert in Kai Tak.

Eddie Choi, head of the Hong Kong Non-Franchised Bus Association, clarified that private cars with permits for alternative checkpoints were rerouted to Huanggang, the sole 24-hour crossing to Shenzhen. Timothy Chui, executive director of the Hong Kong Tourism Association, anticipates higher cross-border travel next weekend and proposed dedicated lanes for buses and coaches near the port area.

In response to these concerns, Chief Secretary Eric Chan visited the Shenzhen Bay and Huanggang control points, directing the Security Bureau to maintain safe, efficient, and orderly operations. Authorities have been instructed to anticipate passenger traffic, establish extra inspection counters, and expand vehicle lanes during peak times. Chan also recommended that travelers consider overnight stays in the SAR for a more comfortable and enriching experience.