When mainland and Hong Kong interests and systems intersect, it often entails risk and reward. But, in the case of the proposed self-drive tour scheme, many in Hong Kong see only huge risks and little reward. In fact, fear has gripped the city since the government announced its intent to launch the scheme in stages, starting in April. People have taken to the streets to voice their opposition.
Though there is qualified support for Hongkongers to drive on the mainland, few want that same privilege extended to mainlanders here. Some people have argued that the scheme must be balanced, or it would be meaningless. But Hong Kong couldn't cope with or tolerate so many vehicles.
The downside is indisputable: more traffic jams on our already congested roads, more vehicular pollution in a city already choking with roadside pollutants.
Besides, mainland drivers are accustomed to driving on the right; Hongkongers drive on the left, making an accident all the more likely. Mainland cars and drivers are about as welcome in Hong Kong as pregnant mainland women crowding out the city's maternity wards.
Many Hong Kong drivers have said they may not even want to exercise such a privilege, as they are wary of the driving conditions and habits across the border. The enforcement system is different, and so is the driving culture.
Even for a hardened mainland traveller like me, after having logged countless kilometres on mainland roads, I am never tempted to actually get behind the wheel. I leave that to someone who knows how to navigate the hazards. Danger lurks everywhere, from hit-and-run gangs ready to waylay and extort drivers, to threats of violence. The horror stories are well known to those who venture north in their own cars.