By Abbas Nazil
Hong Kong’s public transport system has once again set a global benchmark, earning a remarkable 98 percent approval rating in a recent Time Out survey of 18,500 urban residents across 50+ countries.
Recognized as the world’s best, the city’s highly integrated transport network—comprising railways, buses, trams, and ferries—has become a symbol of efficiency, sustainability, and economic vitality.
The seamless connectivity of the Mass Transit Railway (MTR), double-decker trams, extensive bus services, and iconic harbour ferries, all linked through the Octopus payment system, ensures ease of travel for millions daily.
This success is rooted in Hong Kong’s strategic emphasis on rail, with the MTR Corporation’s 271-kilometre network serving over 70 percent of residential areas and 80% of workplaces.
The city’s links to mainland China, including the Cross-Harbour Tunnel and Express Rail Link (XRL), have significantly reduced travel times to major economic hubs like Beijing and Shanghai.
Future projects such as the Northern Link Spur Line and the Hung Shui Kiu–Qianhai rail connection will further integrate the Greater Bay Area, fostering cross-border trade and commerce.
Complementing this extensive railway system, key road infrastructure projects enhance connectivity. The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge has reshaped regional logistics, while the Tseung Kwan O-Lam Tin Tunnel has effectively diverted 40 percent of peak-hour traffic.
The city’s forward-thinking approach includes AI-driven congestion pricing under the HKeToll system, optimizing traffic flow since 2023, alongside significant investment in smart mobility initiatives.
The Smart Traffic Fund, injecting HK$493 million into 68 tech projects, has fueled developments in autonomous vehicles and real-time parking solutions.
Environmental sustainability is central to Hong Kong’s transport strategy. With 90 percent of daily trips relying on public transport—the highest rate globally—the city prevents 4.5 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually.
The introduction of LPG taxis, electric minibuses, and gamified pedestrian incentives highlights a commitment to reducing carbon footprints.
Simultaneously, the transport sector serves as an economic engine, with key hubs like Chek Lap Kok Airport supporting 330,000 jobs and handling 70 million passengers annually.
The city’s maritime trade, anchored by the Kwai Tsing terminals, processes 20 million TEUs each year. Additionally, MTR-retail integrations have significantly boosted consumer spending.
Despite these achievements, challenges persist. Traffic congestion costs the city HK$20 billion yearly, and a 30% surge in private car ownership since 2010 threatens sustainability efforts.
However, the 2023 Major Transport Infrastructure Blueprint provides long-term solutions, including the Northern Metropolis Highway to ease east-west bottlenecks and the Central Rail Link, expected to increase capacity by 30%.
With its blend of innovation and sustainability, Hong Kong continues to lead by example, proving that efficient transport systems can drive economic growth and enhance urban living. END