MTR Corporation to Pay HK$2.25 Billion to Government Over High-Speed Rail Delay

MTR Corporation has agreed to pay HK$2.25 billion (US$287 million) to the Hong Kong government as a one‑off settlement for the delayed completion of the high‑speed rail line, while reaching a consensus to avoid a payout over hurdles affecting the Sha Tin‑to‑Central Link.

Although MTR oversaw the design, construction, testing and operation of the two projects, they remain government‑owned and were funded by public money.

The settlement, announced on Friday, requires MTR Corp to pay HK$2.25 billion to the government – its majority shareholder – for the delay in commencing the 26 km (16.1‑mile) local section of the cross‑border High Speed Rail, which opened in 2018.

MTR Corp and authorities also agreed not to pursue further claims over the Sha Tin‑to‑Central Link, noting that the rail firm had already absorbed HK$2.8 billion in extra costs to resolve quality problems and delays.

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