The Lok Ma Chau border crossing had already been open 24 hours for commercial trucks carrying goods. But for tourists, buses and private cars it used to open at 6:30 a.m. and close at midnight.
Some of the first few people to cross over in the wee hours said the more-open border would help their businesses and make life easier.
Tour agent Zhou Qi said he would be able to bring mainland tourists into Hong Kong earlier in the morning if any want to come then.
It's good news not only for tourists but also people like Chan Wai-Kwong, a Hong Kong resident who works in Shenzhen. Some times he has to work until 2 to 3 am. Now, he can go straight home without staying overnight in Shenzhen.
Many more people cross at the heavily congested checkpoint at Lowu, but it will continue to open at 6:30 a.m. and close at midnight for the time being.
(cri.com January 27, 2003)
|