Top priority: Permanent Secretary for Transport & Housing (Transport) Francis Ho says ferry services between Tai O and Tung Chung will be enhanced. Looking on is Director of Home Affairs Pamela Tan.

Ferry services between Tai O and Tung Chung will be enhanced until land transport fully recovers from damage caused by recent rainstorms, Permanent Secretary for Transport & Housing (Transport) Francis Ho says.

He said today the land transport disruption will continue for some time due to damage by severe landslips.

Ten extra ferry sailings, including seven from Tai O and three from Tung Chung, will be provided daily, while 14 additional sailings will be available Sundays and public holidays.

Director of Highways Wai Chi-sing said the North Lantau Highway was cleared and re-opened last night and one link of Tung Chung Road will be re-opened for both directions tonight. After preliminary technical assessments, the roads to Tai O are expected to be partially re-opened in two weeks.

Director of Home Affairs Pamela Tan said two Marine Police vessels are ready to provide emergency services.

Office of the Telecommunications Authority said fixed-line services have returned to normal, while all mobile-line services will be resumed later today.

The Water Supplies Department is fixing the water supply system damaged by heavy rain and landslips. The water supply will be partially resumed at midnight and fully resumed within the week.