Hong Kong transport chief urges caution over Guangdong car access to South Lantau

Hong Kong's transport chief, Mable Chan, has advised lawmakers to approach calls for allowing more vehicles from Guangdong province into rural South Lantau with "caution." The remarks come amid concerns over recent instances of vehicles from the mainland illegally entering restricted scenic roads on Lantau Island.

Chan stated at a Legislative Council meeting that any review of quotas or potential improvements for self-drive tours on Lantau would involve careful monitoring and consultation with local residents and the Islands District Council. This cautious approach is necessary to address issues arising from the existing Southbound Travel for Guangdong Vehicles scheme, which permits up to 100 private cars from Guangdong daily into Hong Kong's urban areas for a maximum of three days.

The government has previously promoted the southbound scheme as beneficial for Hong Kong's economy, tourism, and trade, fostering integration between the regions. Additionally, a separate Driving on Lantau Island Scheme, initiated in 2016 and expanded in 2022, allows a daily quota of 50 private cars to access specific closed roads. This scheme has seen high demand, with approximately 84,000 applications in 2023 and all available quotas filled annually.

While the transport chief indicated a willingness to explore extending permit periods for the Lantau scheme to include weekends, she emphasized that any quota expansions must carefully balance the goals of tourism development with the traffic concerns of local residents. The need for caution highlights the ongoing challenge of managing cross-border vehicle access while preserving the tranquility of rural areas.

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Regarding reviews of quotas and other potential improvements for self-drive tours on Lantau going forward, we will cautiously and carefully monitor the situation. We will also consult and explore options with local residents and the Islands District Council.