In 2014, the number of motor vehicles in Beijing exceeded 5 million, leading to a sharp contradiction between the increasing number of vehicles and road traffic, making traffic jams a major headache for Beijingers. In contrast, the highly developed metropolis of Hong Kong boasts a convenient and smooth public transportation system. What is the reason for this?
Low Proportion of Private Cars
Hong Kong has a developed economy and is home to many wealthy individuals; however, the number of private cars in Hong Kong is relatively low. By the end of 2006, with a population of nearly 7 million, there were only over 352,000 licensed private cars in Hong Kong, which is quite low compared to other economically developed regions in the world. Moreover, private cars in Hong Kong are rarely used on regular days, only being driven to country parks for family outings during holidays.
Ninety Percent of People Choose Public Transportation
Statistics show that approximately 11 million trips are made daily in Hong Kong using various modes of transportation, with 89% opting for public transport. Hong Kong's public transportation system places a strong emphasis on connectivity and networking. For instance, connections between railways and subways are facilitated by underground passages at transfer points. All transfer points between railways and the airport express are clearly marked on the vehicles, with lights indicating stops, making transfers very convenient.
Road Traffic System Accounts for Over Sixty Percent of Passenger Volume
Hong Kong's road traffic system includes franchised buses, non-franchised buses, public minibuses, and taxis, with passenger volume accounting for about 64% of public transport capacity. Franchised buses are mostly double-decker buses equipped with air conditioning and information screens, with nearly 600 routes. Non-franchised buses primarily provide point-to-point services for tourists, village residents, employees, and students. Short-route minibuses are mainly used for connecting transport points to complete the traffic from main roads to branch lines. Taxis are managed by zones, with taxis from Hong Kong Island and Kowloon allowed to operate throughout the territory, while those from the New Territories and Lantau Island can only serve their respective areas.
High Passage Rate on Roads and Intersections
To avoid the mixing of pedestrians and vehicles and reduce inconveniences caused by opposing traffic, Hong Kong has invested heavily in building various infrastructures that facilitate traffic flow. Currently, there are 12 major vehicular tunnels (including three underwater tunnels), over 1,000 vehicular overpasses and bridges, over 6,000 pedestrian overpasses, and 400 pedestrian tunnels, which help separate pedestrians from vehicles, reduce opposing traffic without barriers, ensure pedestrian safety, and increase vehicle speed.
Another important way to solve traffic problems is through enhanced management. Most intersections in Hong Kong only allow straight and left turns (the driving direction is opposite to that of the mainland), and major intersections are strictly controlled by traffic lights. Pedestrians must cross at crosswalks according to signals. Parking on the roadside is not allowed, and heavy penalties are imposed for violations. These measures ensure that vehicles in Hong Kong can travel at high speeds, resulting in a high passage rate on roads and intersections.
As a modern metropolis, Hong Kong places great importance on establishing a diversified public transportation network to meet the different needs of various social strata. It not only focuses on developing modern transportation facilities but also strives to preserve and improve traditional modes of transport, such as the tram. It is believed that spending a few days in Hong Kong will allow one to personally experience the convenience of its public transportation.