As first reported by dotdotnews, Hong Kong’s Civil Engineering and Development Department (CEDD) successfully applied artificial intelligence and emerging technologies to complete the Tung Chung East reclamation project six months ahead of schedule.
This achievement is part of the broader Tung Chung New Town Extension, a key government initiative to increase land and housing supply. Senior Engineer Deng Yuen-ki attributed the early completion largely to the team’s extensive use of AI, which significantly boosted both safety and productivity.
Source: tung-chung.hk.
Among the key innovations was the introduction of an electronic contract management system, which uses AI to process and verify contractor payment applications. Standard printed text was identified with nearly 100% accuracy, while handwritten receipts achieved 50–70% accuracy. This system, now being piloted in other areas, reduces manual labor and expedites approvals. CEDD believes further AI training will enhance its performance and extend its applicability to future infrastructure projects.
In environmental monitoring, AI was paired with cameras and underwater sensors to study marine ecosystems along the newly constructed 3.8-kilometer ecological coastline. Traditional surveys had limitations, such as disturbing marine life, but AI-based identification of species in recorded footage allows for more accurate, long-term ecological analysis. This method enhances data integrity while minimizing human interference.
Robotics also played a major role. For instance, self-propelled modular transporters were used to move prefabricated bridge structures, avoiding major road disruptions and ensuring safety. Additionally, Hong Kong’s first AI-powered water pipe welding robot was developed to perform internal and external welding more safely and efficiently, reducing labor time to about one-third compared to traditional methods.
Hong Kong’s Tung Chung East reclamation project illustrates how AI and robotics can revolutionize public works. By integrating intelligent systems and automation across planning, monitoring, and construction, CEDD not only improved efficiency but also set a precedent for future smart infrastructure. This project reflects a forward-looking approach to sustainable and technologically advanced urban development.
