Importance of the HZMB
There was a need for a land transport link between Hong Kong and regions West of the Pearl River estuary, according to the Institute of Comprehensive Transportation. The HZMB will allow shorter travelling time, distance and cost. As a matter of fact, the road that bypasses the Pearl River estuary requires 3 hours of travelling time. By sea route, the time is estimated to over one hour. With the new bridge, the travelling time between Hong Kong and Zhuhai could be reduced to 45 minutes.
The construction of the new infrastructures also entails economic advantages such as the promotion of tourism, logistics, finance and trade between the two regions. In addition, it would help towards keeping Hong Kong's status as an international shipping and aviation centre, given the location of the Hong Kong International Airport.
Although the HZMB will promote economic growth and facilitate travelling, it involves construction activities such as dredging and land reclamation, which can cause major environmental impacts. After publication of the impact assessment, the project was delayed by two years and Environmental Permits were required for its continuation. The project was accepted with the condition that impact mitigation measures would be applied.
The construction of the new infrastructures also entails economic advantages such as the promotion of tourism, logistics, finance and trade between the two regions. In addition, it would help towards keeping Hong Kong's status as an international shipping and aviation centre, given the location of the Hong Kong International Airport.
Although the HZMB will promote economic growth and facilitate travelling, it involves construction activities such as dredging and land reclamation, which can cause major environmental impacts. After publication of the impact assessment, the project was delayed by two years and Environmental Permits were required for its continuation. The project was accepted with the condition that impact mitigation measures would be applied.
Aerial view of the Boundary Crossing Facilities. Photo: HKSAR Government.