On March 12, the launching ceremony of the "Bauhinia" U-shaped tunnel boring machine was grandly held on the site of the Yuen Long South Site Formation and Infrastructure Project which is being constructed by CREC. This is the first time that U-shaped TBM technology has been introduced and applied in Hong Kong's engineering and construction history, marking a milestone in Hong Kong's efforts to expand urban space and improve infrastructure.
Director of the Civil Engineering and Development Department of Hong Kong, Mr. Fong Hok-shing, pointed out in his speech, “The launch of the first U-shaped TBM is an important milestone in the history of Hong Kong's engineering and construction. The introduction and application of this innovative technology marks a significant step forward for Hong Kong's infrastructure industry in terms of efficiency.”
Zhao Jinxiang, president of CRIG, delivered a speech on behalf of the contractor at the ceremony. He said, “On behalf of CREC, CRIG will give full play to the advantages of the U-shaped TBM and ensure the safe and high-quality construction of the project, in order to contribute to the economic and social development of Hong Kong and the improvement of people's livelihood.”
"Bauhinia", the first U-shaped TBM applied in Hong Kong is independently developed and manufactured by CREC. It is 9.36 meters wide and 20.72 meters high, and will excavate 1,000 meters on the project.