Explainer | Hong Kong transport cost increases: how much has government shielded commuters from fare, toll rises?
- Star Ferry has increased fares, two harbour tunnel tolls are set to go up and franchised bus operators requested permission to up prices
- Government made statements about curbing increases but how much has it done to lighten public’s burden?
Just as Hong Kong makes its way back to pre-Covid normality, residents’ commutes are likely to cost more as increases in tolls and fares are in the pipeline, with one franchised bus operator requesting a hike of as much as 50 per cent, triggering outrage from the public and lawmakers.
The Post looks at how effectively the administration has dealt with the increases.
1. What tolls and fare increases should you expect?
On Wednesday, transport authorities announced a proposal to raise the toll of two harbour tunnels by HK$10 (US$1.27) each from August 2. The most expensive Western Harbour Tunnel would have its toll cut by HK$15 following the end of its franchise agreement.
Earlier this week, the MTR Corp announced an overhaul of its controversial fare adjustment mechanism, with this year’s increase estimated at 2.45 per cent.
Five franchised bus operators last week requested permission to raise their fares, with Citybus hoping for a 50 per cent increase on its airport routes and KMB, the largest fleet in the city, asking for a 9.8 per cent rise.