The government is planning to change the toll charges for the Tai Lam Tunnel starting in May, according to sources. This new system will involve different charges depending on the time of day, similar to the toll system implemented for the three cross-harbour tunnels last year.
Currently, private car drivers have to pay HK$58 to use the tunnel that connects Ting Kau with Yuen Long. However, under the new plan, the toll will be reduced to HK$45 during peak hours, HK$30 during general hours, and HK$18 during non-peak hours. This is a significant decrease in charges for drivers, which may help alleviate traffic congestion during peak times.
Taxis, which currently pay HK$58 to use the tunnel, will see their toll reduced to HK$28. Additionally, commercial vehicles will pay HK$43, which is cheaper than the current toll levels. These changes are aimed at making the tunnel more accessible and affordable for all types of vehicles.
Ben Chan, a DAB lawmaker who chairs the Legco transport panel, expressed some concerns about the new toll charges. He believes that HK$45 for private cars during peak hours may still be too high. He suggests setting the toll for taxis at HK$25, the same as the toll for the cross-harbour tunnels, to encourage more vehicles to use the tunnel and reduce congestion on other roads.
Chan also pointed out that if the new toll charges are not implemented properly, there could be an increase in traffic on Tuen Mun Road as drivers seek alternative routes to avoid the higher fees. By implementing time-varying toll charges, the government hopes to distribute traffic more evenly throughout the day and reduce congestion on key roadways.
The Tai Lam Tunnel has been under a 30-year franchise since 1995 and is currently owned by a subsidiary of Sun Hung Kai Properties. The upcoming changes in toll charges are part of the government’s efforts to improve traffic flow and make transportation more efficient for all road users.