Table of Contents
Executive Summary
This Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) evaluates the potential environmental effects of the TKO Tunnel to Lam Tin project. The assessment covers all phases of the project from construction through operation, examining impacts on marine ecology, air quality, noise levels, and other environmental factors.
The study concludes that with proper implementation of mitigation measures and monitoring programs, the project's environmental impacts can be maintained within acceptable limits while delivering significant transportation benefits to the community.
Project Description
The TKO Tunnel is a 4.2-kilometer dual-bore tunnel connecting Tseung Kwan O to Lam Tin. The project involves marine construction activities, tunnel boring operations, and the installation of comprehensive mechanical and electrical systems.
Tunnel Length
4.2 kilometers
Maximum Depth
60 meters below sea level
Traffic Capacity
6 lanes (3 in each direction)
Construction Period
2024 - 2028
Marine Ecology Impact
The marine ecology assessment examined potential impacts on water quality, marine life, and benthic communities. Key findings include:
Water Quality
Temporary increases in turbidity during construction, managed through silt curtains and monitoring.
Marine Life
Minimal disruption to fish populations with seasonal construction restrictions during spawning periods.
Coral Communities
No direct impact on coral communities with buffer zones maintained around sensitive areas.
Air Quality Impact
Air quality modeling was conducted to assess potential impacts from construction activities and future tunnel operations. The assessment considered dust generation, vehicle emissions, and ventilation system performance.
Current Air Quality Baseline
Noise Assessment
Noise impact assessment evaluated construction noise and operational noise levels. Modeling results indicate compliance with Hong Kong noise standards with implementation of appropriate mitigation measures.
Noise Compliance Standards
| Period | Limit (dB) | Predicted (dB) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daytime (7AM-7PM) | 70 | 65 | Compliant |
| Evening (7PM-11PM) | 60 | 55 | Compliant |
| Night (11PM-7AM) | 45 | 40 | Compliant |
Mitigation Measures
Comprehensive mitigation measures have been developed to minimize environmental impacts throughout the project lifecycle:
Marine Environment
- Deployment of silt curtains during marine works
- Real-time water quality monitoring
- Seasonal restrictions during fish spawning periods
- Marine mammal observation protocols
Air Quality
- Water spraying for dust suppression
- Covered material transport vehicles
- Regular equipment maintenance
- Air quality monitoring stations
Noise Control
- Noise barriers around construction sites
- Restricted working hours
- Use of quieter construction equipment
- Community noise monitoring
Environmental Monitoring Program
A comprehensive monitoring program has been established to track environmental parameters throughout construction and operation phases:
Water Quality Monitoring
Frequency: Daily during marine works, weekly otherwise
Parameters: Turbidity, dissolved oxygen, pH, suspended solids
Locations: 8 monitoring stations around construction areas
Air Quality Monitoring
Frequency: Continuous monitoring
Parameters: PM2.5, PM10, NO2, SO2
Locations: 6 monitoring stations in surrounding communities
Noise Monitoring
Frequency: Continuous during construction hours
Parameters: LAeq, LA90, LA10
Locations: 10 monitoring points at sensitive receivers
Conclusions
The Environmental Impact Assessment concludes that the TKO Tunnel project can be implemented with acceptable environmental impacts through proper implementation of mitigation measures and monitoring programs.
Overall Environmental Impact
Compliance Status
Monitoring Requirements
The project will deliver significant transportation benefits while maintaining environmental protection standards. Continuous monitoring and adaptive management will ensure ongoing compliance throughout the project lifecycle.