The second and final stage of Hong Kong’s Route 8 traffic and control surveillance system (TCSS) is now fully operational. The TCSS formed part of a major capital works project between Sha Tin and Tsing Yi, involving the construction of roads, viaducts, bridges and tunnels. Successfully commissioned in late December 2009, the TCSS works were completed on time, prior to the completion of the Route 8 civil, electrical and mechanical works.
Overall, the works to Route 8 are intended to reduce congestion on Hong Kong's road network - one of the busiest in the world - as well as improving traffic management through the TCSS, reducing the response time for handling traffic incidents while forewarning the road users of any traffic incidents ahead. The TCSS services the Tai Wai Tunnel, Sha Tin Heights Tunnel, Eagles Nest Tunnel, Nam Wan Tunnel, Stonecutters Bridge as well as 13km stretch of road and viaducts.
Arup was the lead consultant, responsible for the detailed design and construction supervision of the route and associated infrastructure. Arup was also commissioned for the detailed design of the TCSS for R8T (Tsing Yo to Cheung Sha Wan), and site supervision for whole Route 8 (Tsing Yi to Sha Tin).
“The complexity of the traffic plans and automation equipment used in Route 8 are forward thinking by industry standards” explains Arup Project Director, Wilfred Lau. “This intelligent system allows greater automation of traffic control and surveillance systems, as well as allowing for future expansion and maintenance.”
For anyone outside of Hong Kong wanting to glimpse a view of the surveillance system video wall, it features in upcoming blockbuster “Triple Tap”, scheduled for release in mid 2010.