China is building a bridge to connect the Special Administrative Regions of Hong Kong and Macao and to Zhuhai city on the Chinese mainland. Once it's finished, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge is expected to ensure better trade and economic activity on the Pearl River Delta.
Nearly 50 kilometers in length including an underwater tunnel and a bridge over the sea, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge links Zhuhai city, in southern China's economic hub Guangdong Province with Hong Kong and Macao. It'll make trips between these areas faster.
Once in operation, the bridge will shorten the driving time from Hong Kong to both Macao and Zhuhai city, from the current four hours to only 30 minutes. Experts say the big save in time will definitely promote connection between the two special administrative regions and the Chinese mainland.
Last year, a free- trade zone was established in Zhuhai, which has been an engine for economic growth. The friendly environment for trade and investment has attracted a great number of businessmen from Hong Kong and Macao. Many of businesses have also moved their offices to the free-trade zone.
One official believes the new bridge will bring conveniences and benefits to the region.
"There are abundant land and water resources in the western bank of the Pearl River, and great potential for development. The massive bridge will link the cities' cluster and help integrate resources and space," Wei Dongqing, executive director of Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Authority, said.
The director added that better traffic will also reduce the cost of goods transportation as well as boosting tourism, therefore bringing more opportunities for the region's further developments.
