As Hong Kong gears up to celebrate the Lunar New Year, the government has announced a series of special traffic and transport measures to ensure the smooth operation of festive events on the first two days of the holiday. The arrangements, which will affect key locations on Hong Kong Island and in Kowloon, aim to accommodate large crowds and enhance public safety during the celebrations.
The festivities will kick off on January 29, the first day of the Lunar New Year, with the highly anticipated International Chinese New Year Night Parade in Tsim Sha Tsui. The parade, scheduled to begin at 8 p.m., will draw thousands of spectators to the bustling district. To manage the influx, special traffic arrangements will be implemented in phases starting at 3:30 p.m. and will remain in effect until the crowd disperses and roads are deemed safe to reopen.
During this period, the Star Ferry Bus Terminus and the China Ferry Terminal Bus Terminus will temporarily cease operations. On-street parking will be suspended, and designated pick-up/drop-off areas and carparks will be closed to facilitate the event. Authorities are urging residents and visitors to plan their journeys in advance and consider using public transportation to avoid congestion.
The celebrations will continue on January 30 with a dazzling Lunar New Year fireworks display over Victoria Harbour at 8 p.m. To ensure the safety of spectators gathering on both sides of the harbor, police will enforce crowd management measures and implement special traffic arrangements starting from 5 p.m. The Marine Department will also step in, introducing marine traffic control measures and increasing inspections of spectator vessels to ensure compliance with safety standards.
“The Lunar New Year is a time of joy and celebration, and we want everyone to enjoy the festivities safely and comfortably,” a government spokesperson said. “These measures are designed to minimize disruptions and ensure that the events run smoothly.”
Residents and tourists alike are encouraged to stay informed about the latest traffic updates and follow instructions from law enforcement and event staff. With the city’s iconic skyline as a backdrop, the Lunar New Year celebrations promise to be a memorable start to the Year of the Dragon.
As Hong Kong embraces the spirit of the season, the government’s proactive approach to traffic and transport management underscores its commitment to creating a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
