Gov’t forecast up to six million border crossings during CNY holiday

[Photo; Yuki Lei]

Macau authorities have anticipated up to 6.21 million border crossings during mainland China’s nine-day Lunar New Year holiday starting February 15, while the Public Security Police Force (PSP) emphasized that crowd control measures are not limited to holidays, in light of rising pedestrian and vehicular traffic in the city.

As the Lunar New Year approaches, The Times has observed a significant increase in foot and vehicle traffic throughout the city, leading the Public Security Police Force to clarify yesterday that traffic control measures are not restricted to holiday periods.

“Our operations continue consistently, not just during May Day or the [Chinese] New Year,” PSP’s Lei Tak Fai told the press yesterday.

He noted that with an increase in large-scale events such as concerts and urban activities, both traffic and pedestrian flow are anticipated to rise. Consequently, authorities will closely monitor these developments and implement necessary measures to ensure public safety.

According to the latest PSP projections, a significant influx of mainland visitors is anticipated to cross the border during the nine-day holiday period from the 28th day of the 12th lunar month to the seventh day of the first lunar month, with average daily crossings expected to exceed 670,000.

Notably, border crossings are projected to peak on the third day of the Lunar New Year, potentially surpassing 780,000, bringing the total estimated crossings from February 15 to February 23 to between six million and 6.21 million.

However, authorities could not provide definitive recent entry and exit figures at a press briefing held yesterday, emphasizing their commitment to regularly publishing relevant statistics and urging the public to stay informed through official sources.

Lei reiterated that different crowd control measures are implemented at each port of entry, emphasizing that these measures have been “effective,” even though there may not be significant adjustments made to them.

measures to alleviate crowding

To accommodate peak travel demand during the Lunar New Year period, the Transport Bureau (DSAT) has announced the introduction of multiple seasonal bus routes starting Monday. Additionally, eight daytime bus routes – including 3, 21A, 22, 23, 26A, 32, 33, and MT4 – will extend service until 1 a.m., while light rapid transit (LRT) will operate until 2:30 a.m. to better serve residents and visitors traveling at night.

Beginning Sunday, six bus routes that previously terminated at Praça Ferreira do Amaral will now stop at Hotel Lisboa to ease crowding. Moreover, a temporary 500-square-meter space at Portas do Cerco will be opened until February 22, providing passengers with additional waiting space.

Bus stop consolidation and diversion measures will also be implemented in high-traffic areas, including Avenida de Almeida Ribeiro, Praia Grande, and the peninsula’s historic quarters. Authorities are urging residents to use public transportation whenever possible and to check traffic information in advance to effectively plan their journeys.

Authorities also reminded the public that from February 17 to 22, during the Lunar New Year celebrations, pedestrian-only zones will be established in Old Taipa and the areas around Rua dos Ervanários and Rua de Nossa Senhora do Amparo in Macau, featuring festive markets, performances, game stalls, and various activities to enhance the holiday experience.

These zones will be in effect daily from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m., with temporary traffic arrangements implemented on surrounding roads during these hours.

Recently, the increase in passenger numbers in Macau has reignited discussion surrounding taxi fares. Relevant authorities have stated that they will enhance public awareness efforts to ensure travelers are well informed about available payment options, including electronic payments.

According to them, a promotional campaign has also been launched to encourage taxi drivers to adopt multiple payment methods and offer convenient services to passengers.

Travelers are advised to check taxi fare information on the Transport Bureau’s official website and mobile application to understand trip costs in advance.

Authorities further reminded visitors that if they encounter any violations in Macau, they should promptly contact law enforcement agencies, providing specific details such as the date, time, location, and license plate number to facilitate follow-up investigations and resolutions.

Notably, authorities have launched several dedicated websites aimed at enabling visitors to check crowd levels at 114 attractions and monitor real-time clearance statuses at each border crossing.