Hong Kong’s MTR Corporation has commenced critical viaduct construction along the Tuen Mun River as part of the Tuen Mun South Extension project, marking a significant milestone in the territory’s railway expansion program scheduled for completion in 2030.
The 2.4-kilometer extension will extend the Tuen Ma Line southward from Tuen Mun Station via an elevated viaduct system, incorporating two new stations including an intermediate facility at Area 16 and a terminal station at Tuen Mun South near the Tuen Mun Ferry Pier. Foundation works and pier construction have commenced progressively along the river corridor, establishing groundwork for superstructure installation planned to begin by year-end.
Engineering design optimization has achieved a 10 percent reduction in required river piers compared to initial proposals, with fewer than 30 pier sets employing slender cylindrical and distinctive V-shaped configurations. The streamlined approach minimizes river space occupation while maintaining structural integrity for the elevated rail system.
Strategic alignment planning positions the viaduct close to the riverside while carefully avoiding three existing footbridges and one vehicular bridge across the waterway. This configuration preserves pedestrian and vehicular circulation patterns while accommodating the new rail infrastructure within the densely populated Tuen Mun community.
The project represents the largest river railway viaduct undertaking by MTR Corporation in recent years, featuring approximately 1.7 kilometers of elevated trackway with 1.3 kilometers running along the Tuen Mun River. The centerpiece includes a 250-meter river-crossing bridge supported by the signature V-shaped pier design, creating an unobstructed visual corridor along the waterway.
Construction methodology emphasizes community impact minimization through innovative temporary working platforms that occupy minimal river area. Selected platforms are elevated on temporary piles to maintain unimpeded water flow, while a purpose-built temporary river-crossing access route facilitates direct material delivery to construction sites, reducing vehicular traffic disruption in surrounding areas.
Advanced vibration control technology incorporates corrugated spiral tubes enclosing selected viaduct piles to absorb train-induced vibrations, protecting adjacent slopes, river walls, and underground utility infrastructure from operational impacts.
Risk management protocols address the proximity of construction activities to existing Tuen Mun Station operations on the Tuen Ma Line. Comprehensive assessments, detailed method statements, and contingency planning ensure minimal disruption to current railway facilities and passenger services during the construction phase.
The extension project forms part of MTR Corporation’s broader railway development initiative, leveraging over 45 years of end-to-end railway expertise encompassing design, planning, construction, commissioning, maintenance, and operations. The corporation’s integrated approach extends beyond railway delivery to include dynamic community development through seamless integration of rail, commercial, and property elements.
MTR Corporation operates as a recognized world-class provider of sustainable rail transport services, maintaining leadership positions in safety, reliability, customer service, and operational efficiency. The organization’s global operations span Hong Kong, Mainland China, and international markets, serving over 10 million passenger journeys worldwide on weekdays through more than 50,000 dedicated staff across subsidiaries, associates, and joint ventures.
The Tuen Mun South Extension will enhance connectivity between the southwestern New Territories and Hong Kong’s central business districts, providing residents and visitors with improved access to employment centers, educational institutions, and recreational facilities. The project’s completion will strengthen the overall capacity and coverage of Hong Kong’s comprehensive rail network, supporting continued urban development and population growth in the region.
