Kwun Tong Line Extension kicks off

Construction on the Kwun Tong Line Extension (KTE) project in Hong Kong was launched on Monday.

Tunnel works on the 2.6km extension will be undertaken by drill and blast. This has presented significant challenges to planners due to Hong Kong’s densely populated urban environment, said Chew Tai-chong, projects director for client MTR.

The HKD 2.97bn (USD 381M) contract 1001 for KTE tunnel excavation was awarded to Nishimatsu in May. The HKD 856.2M (USD 109.9M) contract 1002 for cut and cover construction of Whampoa Station as well as an overrun tunnel was awarded to a Chun Wo-Hip Hing JV in May.

Arup was contracted to provide consultancy services, with Davis Langdon & Seah, Urbis and Kenneth Ng & Associates as sub consultants. The architect was Integrated Design Associates.

Director of highways of the Hong Kong Highways Department, Lau Ka-keung said, “The extension of the MTR Kwun Tong Line will link up Kowloon City District with the rest of Hong Kong which goes a long way to supporting the Government’s policy of having railways as the backbone of public transport.”

The extension of the existing Kwun Tong Line will run from Yau Ma Tei Station to the new Whampoa Station, via Ho Man Tin. Ho Man Tin Station will provide an intersection with the Shatin to Central Link, due to be completed in 2020.

As T&T went to press, the extension was scheduled to open in 2015.