A joint venture between Arup and Asia Infrastructure Solutions (AIS) has been appointed to design Hong Kong’s first smart and green mass transit system in East Kowloon.
The joint venture partners were appointed by the Hong Kong SAR government’s Highways Department to conduct investigation, design, and construction consultancy service for the transportation system.
This new transit system, a key component of Hong Kong’s smart mobility initiatives, will be commissioned in Hong Kong for the first time. It will connect over 300,000 residents to nearby MTR stations and major public transport interchanges, easing traffic congestion in the area.
Jason Wong, director and East Asia rail business leader at Arup, said: “The introduction of the smart and green mass transit system marks a groundbreaking endeavour in Hong Kong. It will greatly benefit the local community by improving accessibility with sustainable and innovative transport solutions.
“The appointment has reinforced our leading role in providing multidisciplinary services and delivering excellence in transportation projects. In collaboration with AIS, we are excited to bring our rich experience in managing complex projects, cross-sector expertise, and international perspectives to the project.”
The proposed Smart and Green Mass Transit System in East Kowloon is about 7km long, including 6km of viaducts, a 1km tunnel, and eight stations along the line, running from Choi Hung East to Yau Tong East.
The complexity of the project requires diverse expertise across design, construction, operation and maintenance and procurement, necessitating extensive site investigation works due to the challenging terrain.
The joint venture will provide multidisciplinary services including engineering design, site investigation, construction of depots and systems, pedestrian linkage design, transport planning, civil engineering, environmental consultancy, technical assessment, financial assessment and project management.
Additionally, the joint venture will assist in developing the relevant regulatory regime, introducing this unique system in Hong Kong.
Ken Lee, managing director, railways (Asia) at AIS, said: “The development of this smart and green mass transit system will enhance the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability of Hong Kong’s transportation networks.
“We are excited to participate in this project by providing management and multidisciplinary expertise to deliver exceptional service. Together with Arup, we are committed to leveraging our extensive experience and working as an integrated team to successfully manage and deliver the project.”
Main image: Representatives from the Arup-AIS joint venture. (Left to right) Ken Lee, managing director of Railways (Asia) at Asia Infrastructure Solutions; Barry Sum, chief executive of Asia Infrastructure Solutions; Eddie Leung, principal government engineer/railway development of the Highways Department; Tony Yau, director of highways; Michael Kwok, East Asia region chair of Arup; and Jason Wong, director and East Asia rail business leader of Arup
Read next: Balfour Beatty adopts tech safeguards that recognise humans
Are you a building professional? Sign up for a FREE MEMBERSHIP to upload news stories, post job vacancies, and connect with colleagues on our secure social feed.
