Minibus drivers fear losing passengers to new link
Minibus drivers operating between Tsim Sha Tsui and Hunghom expressed fears yesterday of a loss of business with the opening of the East Rail extension.
Many minibus passengers have indicated they are interested in trying something new.
The opening of the Hunghom-Tsim Sha Tsui link would result in a 20 per cent drop in business for minibuses, Hong Kong Kowloon Taxi and Lorry Owners' Association vice-chairman Wong Po-keung said last night.
'If the railway network continues to expand indefinitely, we'll be losing [so] much business ... that's what we're really afraid of,' he said.
Many commuters from Sha Tin to Tsim Sha Tsui, who are used to travelling by bus, said they would switch to the new rail service, as buses 'are not always punctual', he said.
Minibus drivers operating services between Whampoa Gardens and Tsim Sha Tsui expressed the most concern about their businesses being hit by the new rail service and could lose up to $1 million a month, said a source.
