Familiarisation time: Deputy Commissioner for Transport Lau Ka-keung (right) says motorists need time to become familiar with the new traffic arrangements.

To relieve the heavy traffic in Causeway Bay triggered by new traffic arrangements, two franchised bus routes will be diverted to skip stops on Lockhart and Gloucester Roads.

Deputy Commissioner for Transport Lau Ka-keung said routes No.2 (Eastern District bound) and No.70 (Aberdeen bound) will be diverted from 4.30pm today to skip stops on those roads.

The diversion, which will last until June 15, can reduce the weaving movement of buses cutting across four lanes on Gloucester Road.

The diversion of the two routes will take place at different time periods. For Route 2, the diversion period started from 4.30pm today and will run continuously until the last departure on June 15. For Route 70, it will be only from 4.30pm to the last departure daily on June 13, 14 and 15.

The affected bus stops will have notices posted and bus operators have sent staff on site to help passengers.

Sinage improvement

In view of public feedback and site observations, traffic signs will be improved to contain more information, the Highways Department's Major Works Project Management Office Project Manager Adrian Ng said.

"For example, the eastbound lane on Gloucester Road leading to Causeway Bay and North Point has been under utilised this morning. Additional wordings advising motorists that the lane can lead to both Causeway Bay and North Point has been added to the signs.

"It is hoped that the maximising of this traffic lane will alleviate the traffic flow of the other eastbound lanes."

Mr Lau said traffic at Causeway Bay was busy and sometimes congested in the morning of the first working day after implementation of the traffic arrangements to facilitate the reconstruction of Causeway Bay Flyover.

Co-ordination centre

The department will closely monitor traffic conditions in the next few days through the Emergency Transport Co-ordination Centre.

Mr Lau advised motorists to familiarise themselves with the traffic diversion scheme, drive carefully, observe the traffic signs and road markings and follow Police advice.

Motorists are also advised to listen to traffic broadcasts. Appropriate traffic aids have been erected to guide motorists and notices have been displayed by bus companies to advise passengers of the changes.

The new traffic arrangements will last two years. For details click here or visit the Transport Department's website. Enquiries can be made on 1823 or 2804 2600.