Reports of concrete pillar issues at Tung Chung West MTR station

Reports indicate several concrete pillars in the Tung Chung West MTR Station, which is currently under construction, fail to reach the station's platform ceiling.

The MTR says the contractor involved in the project had earlier engaged in unauthorised repair work, and has immediately suspended their operations.

A relevant report on the matter will also be submitted.

Set to be completed by 2029, the Tung Chung West MTR Station already saw the placement of floor slabs on the structure's top level and lobby.

However, recent reports say around half of the concrete pillars on the station's platform have failed to reach the ceiling.

Responding to the situation, the MTR did not address whether the pillars met their height requirement nor problems surrounding their construction, only noting their recent patrols discovered unauthorised repair work having been done on the top of some of the pillars.

The MTR already demanded the contractor suspend its work at the station, adding further investigations will be conducted, while stressing the current construction problems do not pose any structural risks.

The contractor was asked to submit a rectification plan and submit a full relevant report before they can resume their work.

This as some structural engineers suspect the construction of the pillars is simply ongoing.

Hong Kong Institution of Engineers former chairman Chan Sai-cheong emphasised a portion of space will always be kept between the top of the pillar and the ceiling during the construction process, and will only be filled with concrete after work on the floor is completed.

Hong Kong Construction Industry Employees General Union Chairman Chau Sze-kit, meanwhile, questioned the construction method and pointed to possible mistakes in the process.

He added the contractor should have reported construction changes to the MTR before conducting repairs, while both parties suggested the MTR should announce more details on the situation.