PICS: World's Longest 55 Km Sea-Crossing Bridge, Which Took 9 Years To Complete, Opens Between Hong Kong- China

It is a key element of China’s plan for a Greater Bay Area covering 56,500 square km across southern China, and encompassing 11 cities, including Hong Kong and Macau, that are home to a combined 68 million people. / AFP Image

This marks the completion of the longest sea-crossing bridge ever built, nine years after construction began. The 55 km bridge was originally due to open in 2016, but repeated delays pushed that to this year. / AFP Image

NEW DELHI: A $20-billion bridge connecting Hong Kong and Macau to the mainland Chinese city of Zhuhai was launched by China’s President Xi Jinping on October 23. / AFP Image

The bridge project comes at a time when Beijing is tightening its grip on its semi-autonomous territories. / AFP Image

Most drivers will have to park at the Hong Kong port, switching to shuttle bus or special hire cars once they are through immigration. Shuttle buses cost $8-$10 for a single trip depending on the time of day. / AFP Image

The bridge will cut journey times between the cities from three hours to 30 minutes, which they say will enable commuters and tourists to easily move around the region. Despite the focus on drive time however, private car owners in Hong Kong will not be able to cross the bridge without a special permit. / AFP Image