First section of Fanling Bypass to open soon. So how will Hongkongers benefit?

Opening of eastern section will mark first major transport infrastructure project to be completed under Northern Metropolis

The eastern section of Hong Kong’s new Fanling Bypass will be commissioned on May 3, marking the first major transport infrastructure project to be completed under the Northern Metropolis mega development.

The new bypass promises to cut travel times by 10 minutes and will serve as a vital roadway for the Fanling North New Development Area.

The South China Morning Post unpacks what the new bypass is and its significance.

1. What is the new bypass?

The Fanling Bypass (Eastern Section) is a new 4km (2.5 mile) carriageway that serves to link North district in the New Territories with urban areas. The dual two-lane carriageway encompasses at-grade roads, underpasses and viaducts.

The bypass starts at Fanling Highway near Kau Lung Hang in Tai Po and connects to Shek Wu San Tsuen and the Fanling North New Development Area. In between, it passes through the On Lok Tsuen Industrial Area and the Lunk Yeuk Tau Interchange.

Authorities said the bypass allowed motorists to travel between Fanling Lung Yeuk Tau, Luen Wo Hui and Fanling Highway without having to pass through the busy roads running through Sheung Shui’s and Fanling’s town centres.

The new route would help to shave off 10 minutes of travel time during peak hours, the government said.