How New Infrastructure Projects Are Changing Hong Kong Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic
2021-02-16 加盛工程
When you talk about some of the most beautiful, marvellous and enjoyable cities in the world, Hong Kong will always make the list. With over 7.5 million people residing in the city, Hong Kong continues to grow in terms of economy and infrastructure.
In January 2020, Hong Kong recorded its first coronavirus (COVID-19) case. The government quickly put in measures to curb the spread of the pandemic; movement was restricted and residents who could not stay at home were required to keep distance and sanitize their hands regularly.
As a result of the pandemic, the city's GDP dropped by around 9 per cent. However, this New Year seems promising. We are about to experience a brave new world: Hong Kong is tackling COVID-19 with new infrastructure projects explained below.
The Government is Channeling More Funds into New Infrastructure Projects
In a bid to modernise the city, the government is channelling around €25 billion to new infrastructure projects. Some examples of these projects are:
- The Tseung Kwan O-Lam (TKO) Tunnel-
The 2.3-mile tunnel will link the Cross Bay Link (located on the eastern side of Hong Kong) with Lam Tin (located on the western side of the city). It is estimated the tunnel will cost around €1 billion and should be completed by the end of 2021.
- The central Kowloon Route
Even though this new highway will not be completed until 2025, most of the initial construction will continue this year.
- The Sha Tin-Central railway line
This project started in 2020 but will not be completed before 2022. However, the initial parts of this project were recently completed and opened.
With all these infrastructures in place, transportation will improve. More people will get to work quicker and eventually, the economy will improve. Hopefully, the adverse effects of COVID-19 will be long forgotten.
FARS Engineering Ltd is a one-stop metal scaffolding, falsework, and formwork solution firm based in Hong Kong. You can contact us today to learn more about our projects.