Hong Kong is welcoming a new subway line, with the Tuen Ma Line Phase 1 opening to passengers on Feb 14, the city’s transport chief announced Friday.

Comprising 12 stations from Wu Kai Sha in southeastern New Territories to Kai Tak in southwestern Kowloon, the Tuen Ma line links the original Ma On Shan Line with the Kwun Tong Line. 

Speaking at a press briefing at the Legislative Council, Secretary for Transport and Housing Frank Chan Fan said the line has met all safety standards and is ready for operation.

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Talking on choosing Valentine's Day to open the metro line, Chan said he hoped the event could bring some surprise for the city dwellers in a gloomy social atmosphere.

According to the subway operator MTR, a single trip from Tai Wai to Kai Tak costs HK$9.3 for transactions settled by Octopus cards.

The company will provide a discount of HK$1 per trip for passengers boarding at Hin Keng or Kai Tak stations until the launch of the Kai Tak to Hung Hom section. The phase 2 project is expected to open at the end of 2021 the soonest.

Comprising 12 stations from Wu Kai Sha in southeastern New Territories to Kai Tak in southwestern Kowloon, the Tuen Ma line links the original Ma On Shan Line with the Kwun Tong Line. 

Three new stations opening to service are Hin Keng, Diamond Hill and Kai Tak. 

It is also part of the Sha Tin to Central Link, with the section from Sung Wong Toi all the way to Admiralty across Victoria Harbour still under construction. 

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