Hong Kong traffic protests over China drivers continues

Traffic on the streets of Hong Kong have slowed over the past few weekends, fueled by anger over a scheme to allow private vehicles to travel between Hong Kong and neighbouring Guangdong, in south China.Several hundred people took to the streets of Hong Kong on Sunday in continuing protest marches against the project, known as a "self-drive tour scheme"."The cars from mainland use up fuel and release more pollutants. It further intensifies the air pollution," said one protestor, while another added "when the mainland cars come, it will further intensify the traffic congestion".

Many Hong Kong citizens are concerned over potential air pollution, traffic congestion, and road safety under the initiative that will be introduced over two phases.The first phase, which will be implemented in March, allows private vehicles in Hong Kong to enter Guangdong for a short stay of no longer than seven days.In the second phase, private vehicles from Guangdong will be permitted to travel to Hong Kong although there is a quota set at 50 cars per day.Some protesters point out that the plan will increase the problem of traffic congestion on Hong Kong's already crowded roads.

Legislator Audrey Eu said that the government should consult the public and plan more effectively before the scheme is rolled out."Our streets are very small, very crowded. Mainland cars will go to the busiest areas like all the shopping areas and we can't really afford it. And also the government has no planning for park and ride as well," she said.Secretary for Transport and Housing Eva Cheng earlier sought to placate angry locals,telling reporters it was "just a trial scheme"."We will review (the plan's) viability and proceed gradually with caution, taking into account various factors including safety and the capacity of road networks."

タグ：Hong Kong