Hong Kong's controversial bullet train gets off to smooth start
HONG KONG The controversial bullet train in Hong Kong got off to a smooth start yesterday as hundreds of passengers went north across the border at speeds of up to 200kmh, deepening the integration of the former British colony with China.
While the US$11 billion (S$15 billion) rail project has raised fears over Beijing's encroachment on the city's cherished freedoms, passengers at the station were full of praise for a service that reaches China in less than 20 minutes.
"Out of 10 points, I give it nine," said 10-year-old Ng KwanLap, who was travelling with his parents on the first train leaving for Shenzhen at 7am.
Chinese immigration officers are stationed in one part of the modern station that is subject to Chinese law, an unprecedented move that some critics have said further erodes Hong Kong's autonomy.
They said the railway is a symbol of continuing Chinese assimilation of Hong Kong, which returned to Chinese rule in 1997 with a guarantee of widespread autonomy and freedoms, including an independent legal system.
The rail link provides direct access to China's massive 25,000km national high-speed rail network.
The authorities on both sides have hailed it as a breakthrough that will bring economic benefits, including increased tourism.
"No matter what you think about the new line, high-speed rail is extremely convenient," said Assistant Professor Feng Yan of the Communication University of China, who took the bullet train from Shenzhen to Hong Kong. - REUTERS
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