HONG KONG – Commuters traveling southward on the Tolo Highway saw a measure of relief today after authorities partially reopened a critical arterial connecting to the Tai Po Road – Yuen Chau Tsai section, following recent infrastructure work or disruption. The Transport Department confirmed the slip road joining the southbound Tolo Highway (Kowloon-bound) to Tai Po Road – Yuen Chau Tsai was accessible starting around 6 a.m. this morning, allowing drivers to utilize the leftmost lane of the latter road to reach Nam Wan Road.
This limited reopening, however, does not signify a full return to normal traffic flow in the bustling Tai Po district, as several key sections remain closed to ensure safety or facilitate ongoing works. The Department advised motorists that significant portions of the highway connectivity remain restricted.
Remaining Road Closures
Several vital stretches continue to be affected, necessitating alternative routes for thousands of daily commuters:
- Tai Po Road – Yuen Chau Tsai: Both northbound and southbound lanes, excluding the newly opened leftmost strip, remain closed between Nam Wan Road and the Tolo Highway.
- Tolo Highway Slip Road (Northbound): The direct connector from the northbound (Sheung Shui-bound) Tolo Highway onto Tai Po Road – Yuen Chau Tsai is inaccessible.
- Kwong Wang Street: This road is fully closed in both directions.
While the exact nature of the disruption was not specified in the Department’s advisory, the extensive closures underscore the necessity of finding alternative navigation strategies, particularly during peak commuting hours.
To mitigate anticipated congestion and guide the public, the Transport Department has activated emergency messaging systems. Variable message signs (VMS) placed along both directions of the Tolo Highway are now providing enhanced alerts. These advisories specifically direct drivers heading into various areas of Tai Po—including those around the Tai Wo Estate, Sheung Shui, or the Tai Po Market—to use main alternative routes such as Tat Wan Road, Tai Wo Road, or Yin Wan Road (also known as Yin Wan Street or Yin Wan Road depending on the locality).
Coordination and Driver Caution
In an effort to maximize the efficiency of the partially opened roads, the government has implemented temporary changes to existing road markings and signage. Modifications have been made particularly on Tat Wan Road and sections connecting to the Tolo Highway slip road to help manage and dissipate traffic bottlenecks around the newly operational stretch. This quick reconfiguration is aimed at maximizing throughput and minimizing delays.
A spokesperson for the Transport Department reiterated the need for heightened vigilance among drivers. “Motorists must adhere strictly to all prevailing traffic light signals, road signs, and revised road markings in the area,” the Department advised in a statement. “Please exercise extreme caution while navigating these routes.”
The ongoing closures, while inconvenient, highlight the continuous pressure on Hong Kong’s main arterial routes and the complex logistical challenges involved in maintaining infrastructure integrity while sustaining high-volume traffic flow. Commuters are strongly encouraged to check real-time traffic updates through local radio or mobile applications before starting their journey, particularly those traveling through the heavily affected Tai Po transport hub. Further updates on the complete reopening of the remaining closed sections are expected within the coming days or weeks.
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