Gov’t to present a plan to operate the Macau Bridge during T8

The Transport Bureau (DSAT) and the Public Works Bureau (DSOP) are coordinating the work of a multidepartmental team to produce a plan to operate the Macau Bridge during Signal No. 8 typhoons.

In a joint press statement, the two bureaus noted that this plan will be based on the analysis of the testing results conducted on the night of September 7 (Sunday) and will include the details of the traffic plan’s implementation.

They noted that public safety will be the top priority in drafting the plan, covering aspects such as the types of vehicles authorized to operate on the Macau Bridge during Typhoon Signal No. 8 and the applicable traffic rules and restrictions.

For now, the bureau said that the interdepartmental group is analyzing all the results from the testing in which various public departments deployed vehicles and analysis technicians.

The tests included multiple runs on different lanes, aimed at collecting data on traffic conditions in various scenarios for comprehensive analysis and assessment.

When it was first unveiled to the public, the major highlight of the fourth bridge connecting the Peninsula and Taipa Island was the fact that, contrary to the previous three structures in use, it could be used during Signal No. 8 typhoons.

Despite this being one of the most significant justifications for its construction, when it was completed, the transport authorities said that they had reconsidered such a plan and were closing this bridge to traffic, as well.

When the Times questioned them on the matter, DSAT officials justified this change by stating that they “did not want to incentivize people to drive during Signal No. 8 typhoons,” remarking that they were considering using it just for emergency vehicles.

For many years, the closing of all links between the Peninsula and Taipa Island during Signal No. 8 typhoons has been considered a significant problem that affects a large number of people, namely those who work and live across the water, as well as those employed in the gaming and hospitality industries in Cotai.

Without the Macau Bridge open to traffic, the only solution to travel between the two sides during Signal No. 8 is through the lower deck of Sai Van Bridge, in a narrow traffic lane that usually becomes overwhelmed with demand.