The MTR Corporation announced that the cost of Hong Kong’s new rail link from Sha Tin to Central has increased to HKD 97.1 billion (EUR 10.5 billion), making it the most expensive rail project in Hong Kong. The company said that there had been an additional HKD 16.5 billion budget overrun (EUR 1.7 billion euros). Initially, the approved project estimate for the entire project – as passed by the Legislative Council – stood at HKD 79.814 billion (EUR 8.6 billion euros).
The corporation said around 70% of the increase was attributable to additional costs arising from external factors. The external factors included archaeological finds at the work sites of Sung Wong Toi Station, the late or incomplete handover of construction sites in Wan Chai North, and non-budgeted foundation works for a future top-side development at Exhibition Centre Station. It also blamed a shortage of labour and unfavourable ground conditions.
The 17 km new line will connect rail services between Tai Wai and Admiralty. The Tai Wai to Hung Hom section will extend the existing Ma On Shan Line from Tai Wai to the West Rail Line via East Kowloon to form the “East West Corridor.” It is expected to be operational in 2019. The Hung Hom to Admiralty Section will extend the existing East Rail Line across the harbour to Wan Chai North and Admiralty to form the “North South Corridor.” It is expected to be operational in 2021.
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