Northern Link: Hong Kong-Shenzhen Rail Boosts Cross-Border Mobility

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Introduction

The MTR Corporation initiated the full-scale construction of the Northern Link Project with a ceremony on 3 October 2025 at the Shui Mei Road site in Yuen Long. This event marked the commencement of the Northern Link Main Line construction and the detailed design phase for the Northern Link Spur Line.

Project Overview

The Northern Link Project is designed to be a critical component of the mass transit system within the Northern Metropolis. It will connect the East Rail Line and Tuen Ma Line, and provide a new cross-boundary link to Shenzhen’s Huanggang Port.

Key Participants and Statements

The launch ceremony was attended by Dr Rex Auyeung, Chairman of MTR Corporation, and Dr Jacob Kam, MTR’s Chief Executive Officer, along with Ms Mable Chan, Secretary for Transport and Logistics; Mr Tony Yau, Director of Highways; and Mr Wang Hui, Deputy Director General of the New Territories Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong SAR.

Ms Mable Chan highlighted the project’s importance as a transport artery supporting the Northern Metropolis’ development and linking Hong Kong and Shenzhen’s metro networks via a ‘co-location arrangement’ immigration clearance mode at the new Huanggang Port.

Dr Rex Auyeung emphasized the project’s strategic significance for Hong Kong’s economic development and integration with the Greater Bay Area, stating that the Northern Link would greatly enhance accessibility within the Northern Metropolis and deepen cross-boundary connections with the Mainland.

Construction and Technical Aspects

The Northern Link is the largest of MTR’s ongoing railway projects, encompassing both domestic and cross-boundary infrastructure. The Main Line will connect the East Rail and Tuen Ma lines, while the Spur Line will extend northwards to Shenzhen’s Huanggang Port, becoming Hong Kong’s third direct cross-boundary rail connection.

The construction presents significant technical challenges due to complex geology, dense urban development, and proximity to existing railway assets. MTR and the Hong Kong SAR Government are collaborating to coordinate the Main Line and Spur Line works and ensure the synchronised opening by 2034.

Under the Northern Link (Part 1) Project Agreement, major construction works are underway, including new stations at Kwu Tung, Au Tau, and Kam Sheung Road; tunnel sections between Kwu Tung and San Tin, and Au Tau and Kam Sheung Road; and associated railway systems. The Shui Mei Road site will house the first tunnel boring machine (TBM) launch shaft.

Progress at Kwu Tung Station, part of the East Rail Line and the Northern Link scheme, remains on schedule. The station is expected to reach topping out in November 2025 and enter service in 2027.

Project Goals and Future Impact

When complete, the Northern Link will establish a continuous rail loop connecting the New Territories and Kowloon, enhancing network resilience and supporting the urban transformation of the Northern Metropolis. The project aims to facilitate cross-border mobility, economic growth, and sustainable transport integration between Hong Kong and Shenzhen.

Conclusion

The MTR Corporation has initiated the Northern Link Project, a key infrastructure initiative connecting the East Rail Line and Tuen Ma Line, with a cross-boundary link to Shenzhen’s Huanggang Port. The project includes the construction of the Main Line and Spur Line, with a target opening date no later than 2034.

Company Summary

MTR Corporation: A Hong Kong-based public transport operator, known for its railway and related services, including the development and operation of the Northern Link Project.

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