Shenzhen-Hong Kong West Corridor opens

Source: CCTV.com | 07-01-2007 14:14

Chinese President Hu Jintao cuts the ribbon by car driving-in during the opening ceremony of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Western Corridor

The 5.5 kilometer Corridor is now operational. This, as a gift for the 10th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to China. Chinese President, Hu Jintao, attended the opening ceremony and cut the ribbon.

This five and a half kilometers route has brought Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland closer. The Hong Kong section links up the northern end of Deep Bay Link at Ngau Hom Shek, with the mainland section of the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Western Corridor. The Shenzhen-Hong Kong Corridor is a 3-lane highway. The Western Corridor is the fourth vehicular crossing between the Hong Kong SAR and Shenzhen. The much-needed addition, will help relieve heavy traffic at the other crossings.

Chinese President Hu Jintao (C) cuts the ribbon during the opening ceremony

Authorities expect the new route will see at least 10 percent, of the total cross-border traffic flow. The new Hong Kong airport, Disneyland and Hong Kong Island, are just half an hour away. The Corridor is expected to give trade a boost. It will help facilitate economic development particularly in areas of finance, logistics and tourism. And strengthen the position of Hong Kong as the hub of the Pearl River Delta area.

The Hong Kong SAR government estimates the Western Corridor will bring in about 17.5 billion Hong Kong dollars, or about two billion US dollars, by 2020.

Editor:Du Xiaodan