Time-sensitive toll charges kicked in at the three cross-harbour tunnels on Sunday morning, and traffic appeared to be smooth overall as display screens showed motorists exactly how much they need to pay for their trip.

All eyes are now on whether the new policy would help to ease congestion at peak hours.

One taxi driver told RTHK that he believes a higher toll will help reduce traffic during rush hours.

But a motorist said the price of the toll is not the most important factor. "Basically I have no choice because I drive my child around," she said. "The toll is cheaper if I leave home half an hour earlier... but I'd rather let my child sleep a little longer."

Under the new arrangement, from Monday to Saturday, it costs HK$30 to use a crossing during non-peak hours in the day and HK$20 at night.

During the “transitional time slots” leading up to the morning and evening rush hours, the toll will go up at a rate of HK$2 per two minutes to HK$60 at the Western Harbour Crossing, and HK$40 at the Cross-Harbour Tunnel and the Eastern Harbour Crossing.

The tolls will decrease at the same rate outside of the busiest hours.

A simplified version of the charging scheme applies on Sundays and public holidays.

Meanwhile, a fixed fee of HK$25 and HK$50 apply for taxis and commercial vehicles respectively.
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Last updated: 2023-12-17 HKT 13:41