Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan on Sunday said the submission of two tenders for the Kai Tak Smart and Green Mass Transit System was a positive outcome that met government expectations.

Spanning about 3.5 kilometres, the transit system will feature six elevated stations linking Kai Tak MTR Station to the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal.

While the project had previously drawn dozens of expressions of interest, Chan noted that the two bids received were well-rounded and came from strong partnerships.

“Both tenders were backed by very strong consortia, each bringing together engineers, consultants, and are experienced in operations and business development. They are formed by partnerships,” she spoke on a TV programme.

On updating efforts to legalise ride-hailing services in the city, the transport minister noted that more than 7,500 drivers had signed up for a combined written test covering taxis and ride-hailing vehicles since registration opened earlier this month.

The first batch of applicants is scheduled to take the exam in mid-September, she added.

Chan also said authorities would begin inviting ride-hailing platforms to apply for operating licences in the coming weeks.

She said several platforms commonly used by Hong Kong residents while travelling in the mainland and Southeast Asia have expressed interest.



Edited by Tony Sabine