Construction of the Sha Tin to Central Link is still slated to start next year, so the line can open on time in 2020, despite the time required for the review of the three environment impact assessments on it.
     Government official said the three reports were withdrawn earlier in view of the court's judgment on the reports for the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge. The original plan was to start construction of the link next year, and complete the Tai Wai to Hung Hom section in 2018 and the Hung Hom to Admiralty Section in 2020.
     The Government will closely monitor patronage on the East Rail and Ma On Shan Lines, and will study the need to introduce mitigation measures should the link open later than scheduled.