Say 'cheese': A little guest takes photos for KCRC Acting Chief Executive Officer Samuel Lai, Chairman Michael Tien, Financial Secretary Henry Tang and Legislative Council Transport Panel Chairman Lau Kong-wah.

The Ma On Shan Rail, a direct and convenient commuter service between Wu Kai Sha and Tai Wai, has begun operation, offering another choice of transportation which is efficient, comfortable, reliable and environmental-friendly, Financial Secretary Henry Tang says.

Officiating at the opening ceremony in Tai Wai today, Mr Tang said Ma On Shan Rail, like other new railway lines, will boost the development of new towns along the rail link and improve people's living standard.

Mr Tang noted Ma On Shan Rail, the West Rail opened last year and the Mass Transit Railway Tseung Kwan O Line in 2002 are the three priority rail projects named in the first Railway Development Strategy published in 1994. The commissioning of the Ma On Shan Rail marks the completion of the priority projects, he added.

Half-hour from Wu Kai Sha to East Tsim Sha Tsui

The 11.4-kilometre Ma On Shan Rail comprises nine stations, including Tai Wai, Che Kung Temple, Sha Tin Wai, City One, Shek Mun, Tai Shui Hang, Heng On, Ma On Shan and Wu Kai Sha. By interchanging with East Rail in Tai Wai, Ma On Shan residents can have easy access to other rail lines.

A journey from Wu Kai Sha to Tai Wai will take around 16 minutes. To East Tsim Sha Tsui takes around 30 minutes.

Trains for Ma On Shan Rail service are in four-car configurations and available every three minutes during peak hours.