Northern Link Branch Line Gets Green Light, San Tin to Huanggang in 11 Minutes
HK01 · 2 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
The Transport and Logistics Bureau has granted approval for the Northern Link branch line Hong Kong section railway scheme, following its publication in the Gazette under the Railways Ordinance. The project represents a critical cross-border railway connection that combines local commuting within Hong Kong with cross-border transport functions. The underground railway will extend approximately 6 kilometres from the Northern Link main line at San Tin station, with the Hong Kong section covering about 5 kilometres and the Shenzhen section spanning roughly 1 kilometre. Construction will proceed swiftly to align with the broader Northern Metropolis development strategy, with the government emphasizing that zero objections were received during the statutory publication period.
Key Points
- Railway scheme authorized under Railways Ordinance by Transport and Logistics Bureau; zero objections received during Gazette publication period
- Underground railway totals approximately 6 km, with Hong Kong section at about 5 km and Shenzhen section at approximately 1 km
- Three new stations planned: Zhutou in San Tin Innovation and Technology Park, Hetao area in Hong Kong, and New Huanggang Port in Shenzhen
- Branch line serves dual functions as local commuter rail for Northern Metropolis and cross-border connection to Greater Bay Area
- Target completion by 2034 or earlier, synchronizing with Northern Link main line opening; journey from San Tin to New Huanggang Port takes approximately 11 minutes
Why It Matters
The project delivers tangible infrastructure connectivity between Hong Kong's Northern Metropolis and Shenzhen's Hetao Innovation Cooperation Zone, positioning the region as a technology and innovation hub within the Greater Bay Area while providing direct rail access to a major border crossing point for both commuters and businesses .
The project delivers tangible infrastructure connectivity between Hong Kong's Northern Metropolis and Shenzhen's Hetao Innovation Cooperation Zone, positioning the region as a technology and innovation hub within the Greater Bay Area while providing direct rail access to a major border crossing point for both commuters and businesses .