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Opinion | Hong Kong-Qianhai rail link is vital to realising the Greater Bay Area’s potential
- Convenient, efficient rail access to Qianhai from Hong Kong will be an essential part of fostering integration and economic growth
- Despite concerns about construction costs and engineering challenges, it is logical and pragmatic for Hong Kong to forge closer ties with Qianhai and Shenzhen
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Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor is reportedly planning to unveil a proposal to build a rail link, connecting Hong Kong with the Qianhai economic zone in Shenzhen, during her policy address on October 6.
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At present, there is not even a direct, road-based transport connection, let alone a rail link. This is despite the fact that ideas for rail networks linking Hong Kong and the western part of Shenzhen were floated in the early 2000s, when proposals to connect Hong Kong International Airport with the Nanshan district of Shenzhen and Shenzhen Baoan International Airport were raised.
After more than two decades, the idea of using railways for better connectivity between Hong Kong and Shenzhen has been resurrected.
In early September, Beijing announced a development plan for Qianhai in which its cooperation zone will be expanded eightfold, to foster a world-class business environment and enhance closer business and technological cooperation with Hong Kong.
Sometimes referred to as the “Manhattan of the Pearl River Delta”, Qianhai will serve as an exemplar to drive the development of the Greater Bay Area. The region is one of China’s top national strategic initiatives in its bid to boost economic growth, innovation and connectivity to establish a world-leading city cluster to rival other bay areas around the world.
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Therefore, it is logical and pragmatic for Hong Kong to forge closer ties with Qianhai and Shenzhen. Building convenient, efficient rail access is vital for connectivity between these “twin” cities.
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