Arup and Asia Infrastructure Solutions (AIS) joint venture has been selected to conduct investigation, design and construction consultancy services for a new MTR system in Hong Kong.
Apart from Ove Arup and Partners Hong Kong Ltd and Asia Infrastructure Solutions Ltd, the professional team formed by the joint venture is also composed of local financial consultant Knight Frank Petty and planning consultant KTA Planning, an engineering design consultant from the Mainland, China Design Group Co, and professional members in other various disciplines. The joint venture will take forward the planning, investigation and design work for the project at full steam.
The proposed mass transit system in East Kowloon is about 7 km long, including 6 km of viaducts, a 1 km tunnel and 8 stations along the line, running from Choi Hung East (near the MTR Choi Hung station) to Yau Tong East (near the MTR Yau Tong station).
The Hong Kong Government plans to invite suppliers and operators from the mainland and overseas to submit expressions of interest in the second half of this year, in order to ascertain their interests and capabilities in the construction and operation of the system, and to seek their views on various aspects of the project.
The tenderers will be invited for the construction of the project in 2026 and the contract is expected to be awarded in 2027. According to the Highways Department of Hong Kong, the works are expected to be completed in 2033.
This new transit system in East Kowloon will be commissioned in Hong Kong for the first time. It will connect over 300,000 residents to nearby MTR stations and major public transport interchanges, easing traffic congestion in the area.
“The proposed Smart and Green Mass Transit System in East Kowloon will provide convenient and fast transport feeder services to the northern uphill areas of Kwun Tong for connection with the MTR Choi Hung and Yau Tong Stations and major public transport interchanges, thus providing more commuting options for over 300 000 residents in the uphill areas while reducing the impact of road traffic congestion on the public’s commuting,” a spokesman for the Highways Department of the Hong Kong said.
The complexity of the project requires diverse expertise across design, construction, operation and maintenance and procurement, necessitating extensive site investigation works due to the challenging terrain.
“The development of this smart and green mass transit system will enhance the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability of Hong Kong’s transport networks. We are excited to participate in this project by providing management and multidisciplinary expertise to deliver exceptional service. Together with Arup, we are committed to leveraging our extensive experience and working as an integrated team to successfully manage and deliver the project,” Ken Lee, Managing Director, Railways (Asia) at AIS, said.
The joint venture will provide multidisciplinary services including engineering design, site investigation, construction of depots and systems, pedestrian linkage design, transport planning, civil engineering, environmental consultancy, technical assessment, financial assessment and project management. Additionally, Arup will assist in developing the relevant regulatory regime, introducing this unique system in Hong Kong.
The new MTR system in Hong Kong is a key component of smart mobility initiatives, to move road transport towards public transport.
“The introduction of the smart and green mass transit system marks a groundbreaking endeavour in Hong Kong. It will greatly benefit the local community by improving accessibility with sustainable and innovative transport solutions. The appointment has reinforced our leading role in providing multidisciplinary services and delivering excellence in transportation projects,” Jason Wong, Director and East Asia Rail Business Leader, Arup said.
Share on:
