I WAS recently on board a private bus travelling from Tai Tam to Sheung Wan. Our driver went to Aberdeen Tunnel, assuming it was the fastest way.

However, as we approached the overhead bridge leading to the tunnel entrance, there was a traffic jam. All the vehicles were at a standstill and remained so for about five to seven minutes. We started, slowly, to move. Fortunately, our driver had an ''Auto-Pass'' facility and was able to drive on the express lane.

It was when we reached the tunnel that I was able to ascertain that there were only two to three booths open for oncoming traffic. This seems to make a mockery of the idea that you use the tunnel, because it is shorter and faster.