On March 26, 2025, Hong Kong's traffic conditions were significantly affected by a series of ongoing roadworks and accidents, leading to congestion across several major tunnels and highways. The Transport Department provided real-time updates on the traffic situation, allowing drivers to plan their journeys accordingly.
According to the latest reports, the Cross-Harbour Tunnel experienced slow traffic towards Hong Kong, while the route to Kowloon was congested. Similarly, the Eastern Harbour Crossing faced heavy traffic in both directions, with conditions described as "congested" for drivers heading towards Hong Kong and Kowloon. The Western Harbour Crossing also reported significant delays, with traffic described as "congested" in both directions.
In addition to the tunnel issues, the estimated travel times from various locations to these tunnels indicated longer than usual delays. For instance, travel from Gloucester Road eastbound near Revenue Tower to the Cross-Harbour Tunnel was estimated at five minutes, while the same journey to the Eastern Harbour Crossing took about nine minutes. The situation was similarly mirrored at other key locations, such as Connaught Road Central and Hing Fat Street, which reported travel times ranging from five to eight minutes to the various tunnels.
Road resurfacing works were also underway, with sections of Cheung Tsing Highway, Tsing Yi Road West, and Tsing Sha Highway closed from 10 PM on March 26 until 1:30 AM on March 27. This closure was expected to affect bus routes, prompting the Transport Department to advise drivers to consider alternative routes.
Furthermore, another significant roadwork project was in effect on Kwai Chung Road towards Kowloon, which would see sections closed from 10 PM on March 26 until 6 AM on March 27. These ongoing works, alongside earlier accidents, contributed to the growing congestion reported throughout the day.
Earlier in the evening, an accident on Tai Po Road towards Sheung Shui, near the Sha Tin Sewage Treatment Works, caused further delays, with the queue stretching back to Fung Wo Estate. This incident, along with a broken-down vehicle on Lung Cheung Road near the Lion Rock Tunnel bridge, compounded the traffic woes experienced by motorists.
As the day progressed, the Kowloon entrance of the Tate's Cairn Tunnel faced congestion, with queues reported to reach the Kowloon Bay International Trade & Exhibition Centre. In light of these developments, the Transport Department reminded the public to stay informed about traffic conditions and to plan their journeys accordingly.
In addition to the immediate traffic concerns, special traffic arrangements were announced due to upcoming festivals and events. Temporary traffic arrangements will be in place for the Ching Ming Festival on March 29, which is expected to attract significant public attention and participation. These arrangements will affect various locations, including Kwai Chung Old Cemetery and Diamond Hill, where specific traffic measures will be implemented.
Moreover, the Transport Department extended the temporary suspension of metered parking spaces on Yuen Long Ping Shun Street until March 31, 2025, to accommodate ongoing roadworks and ensure smoother traffic flow in the area.
As Hong Kong approaches the busy Ching Ming Festival period, the Transport Department urged the public to remain vigilant and to adjust their travel plans accordingly. The department stressed the importance of checking real-time traffic updates to avoid delays and ensure safety on the roads.
In summary, the traffic situation in Hong Kong on March 26, 2025, was characterized by significant congestion across major tunnels and highways, compounded by ongoing roadworks and accidents. As the city gears up for the Ching Ming Festival, residents are encouraged to stay informed and plan their travels wisely to navigate the expected traffic challenges.