Tunnel vision: Construction of Nam Wan Tunnel, a key component of Route 9, will start soon with the award of its $1.5-billion works contract.

The Highways Department has awarded a $1.479-billion contract for the construction of Nam Wan Tunnel and West Tsing Yi Viaduct.

The 1.25-kilometre tunnel is twin-bore with three lanes each way, running underneath the southern part of Tsing Yi.

The contract, awarded to the Gammon Skanska and Skanska International Civil Engineering joint venture, also covers construction of tunnel control buildings and the one-kilometre long dual three-lane West Tsing Yi Viaduct.

Works will start soon for completion by mid-2007.

Director of Highways Mak Chai-kwong said the department is committed to improving the road network to meet transport and development needs.

Route 9 is a trunk road linking Lantau and Sha Tin via Tsing Yi and West Kowloon. Part of the route, including the North Lantau Highway and the Lantau Link, were completed in 1997.

The remaining section between Tsing Yi and Sha Tin will be built in phases.

Upon completion, the route will provide a direct link between Hong Kong airport and the northeast New Territories.

It will also offer drivers direct access to container terminals without going through Tsing Yi's local road network.