Railways are safe, efficient, reliable, comfortable and environmentally friendly mass carriers. They play a key role in Hong Kong's transport systems strategy. The Government accords high priority to railway development.

To meet Hong Kong's increasing transport needs in a sustainable manner over the next two decades, the Government has formulated the Railway Development Strategy 2000 that would provide a blueprint for the next phase of our railway development.

KCR West Rail, the East Rail Tsim Sha Tsui Extension and the East Rail Tai Wai to Ma On Shan Rail Link began operation since December 2003, October 2004 and December 2004, respectively. These projects involved an investment of about $63 billion. Two rail projects (the Sheung Shui to Lok Ma Chau Spur Line and the Disneyland Resort Line) are now under construction at a total cost of about $12 billion.

Two new rail projects, Kowloon Southern Link and Sha Tin to Central Link, are now under active planning for implementation at a total estimated cost of about $38 billion.