(To watch the full media session with sign language interpretation, click here.)

Secretary for Transport & Housing Frank Chan today announced that the Tuen Ma Line will be fully opened on June 27.

Mr Chan told reporters that the two new stations - Sung Wong Toi and To Kwa Wan, together with the new platforms at Hung Hom and Ho Man Tin stations will open on that day, providing an efficient and convenient railway service to the To Kwa Wan and Kowloon City areas.

The Tuen Ma Line at approximately 56km long with 27 stations is the longest railway line in Hong Kong and connects Tuen Mun to Wu Kai Sha.

Mr Chan said residents along the line will enjoy enhanced connectivity with the rest of the city’s rail network, using the six interchange stations to connect to the East Rail Line, Kwun Tong Line, Tung Chung Line as well as the Tsuen Wan Line.

The train frequency at peak hours will be three minutes.

The transport chief said the Electrical & Mechanical Services Department confirmed this morning that the rail line has met the safety requirements and the Mass Transit Railway Corporation (MTRC) can prepare for its commissioning.

The line’s full commissioning was expected to be in the third quarter but it is now ready to start service early.

Mr Chan said: “As regards the timing in respect of the Tuen Ma Line commissioning, I have to say that both the Government and the Mass Transit Railway Corporation (worked) very hard during the past year with the view to commissioning the Tuen Ma Line as soon as possible because we appreciate very much the expectation of the people who are looking forward to taking a ride on this particular new line.

“It connects to four other railway lines, provides flexibility, convenience and also saves time. That’s why we have been working very hard to move the commissioning target (to) a quarter earlier.”

He added that the MTRC will provide special fare promotions for passengers and there will also be interchange offers with other transport operators.