Explainer | How Hong Kong hopes to avoid repeat of New Year’s Eve’s border chaos and why easier crossings can be double-edged sword

On the eve of the New Year, a significant number of mainland Chinese tourists flocked to Hong Kong to witness the fireworks display. However, their return journey was marred by chaos at the border, leading to delays and stranding of many. This incident has sparked a demand for improved connectivity between Hong Kong and mainland China. In response, the Hong Kong government expressed its intention to negotiate with its mainland counterpart to extend the operating hours at checkpoints linked to rail services and introduce more round-the-clock services. The authorities also pledged to enhance coordination of transport arrangements ahead of any large-scale events to facilitate smoother return journeys for visitors.

This article explores the potential challenges that Hong Kong might encounter with extended hours for border crossings and the possible impact on the city's economy. The authorities are keen on extending the operating hours at checkpoints due to the high volume of traffic. For instance, approximately 26,000 visitors used the Lok Ma Chau control point to return to Shenzhen's Huanggang after the fireworks display. The following day, the authorities announced their plan to negotiate with their mainland counterparts to extend the operating hours at certain checkpoints served by trains and increase the number of round-the-clock border access points in the long run. They also intend to extend the operating hours at the Lo Wu and the Lok Ma Chau Spur Line-Shenzhen's Futian checkpoints linked to the East Rail line during festive periods to leverage the passenger capacity provided by mass transit.

Currently, out of the 14 control points in the city, four operate 24 hours a day. These include the Hong Kong International Airport, Lok Ma Chau that connects Shenzhen's Huanggang, Macau Ferry Terminal in Sheung Wan, and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge. The Lok Ma Chau-Huanggang control point is the only one that allows visitors to cross the border to and from Shenzhen at any time. Another alternative for visitors to travel between Shenzhen and Hong Kong is via the mega bridge, albeit it involves a long detour. The proposal to expand cross-border services requires Beijing's approval and collaboration with authorities in Guangdong and Shenzhen. The National Development and Reform Commission, the state planning agency, has unveiled a plan to add more 24-hour checkpoints to Hong Kong to enhance the appeal of the Greater Bay Area to businesses. However, the introduction of longer service hours at certain checkpoints faces hurdles, including the transport arrangements on the Shenzhen side, which would involve the municipal authorities.