The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge moved a step closer to completion as two main bridge structures were connected recently. Lawmaker Lo Wai-kwok,who represents the engineering sector on the city’s legislature,described the connection as “milestone for worldclass project” but said that there will still be many challenges before the project is finished.

The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Authority said 80% of a 6.7-kilometer tunnel has been completed.A full scale effort can now begin on the bridge deck pavement and traffic engineering. The 55-kilometer link is compromised of the offshore bridge and tunnel; boundary crossing facilities in Hong Kong,Zhuhai and Macao;routes connecting the three cities. The main structure of the bridge is made up of the underwater tunnel and a bridge spanning 22.9 kilometers. Artificial islands will be built on both ends of the tunnel. The bridge planned in 1983 and it is expected to be completed by the end of next year. Once the bridge is completed,commuting times between Hong Kong and Zhuhai will be reduced fom 3.5 hours to only 30 minutes.