Manpower fear over bus routes

CONCERN has been raised that Citybus may not be ready to take over 26 routes from China Motor Bus (CMB) in just over a month.

Legislative Councillor Dr Huang Chen-ya of the United Democrats, after meeting Transport Department officials yesterday, said Citybus only had about 70 trained drivers.

Dr Huang estimated the takeover on September 1 would need about 400 drivers for the 200 buses serving the routes.

A Citybus spokeswoman declined to comment and said the company would disclose details of staff arrangements next month.

The United Democrats have urged the Government to monitor fare increases by Citybus. The company will be required to submit a five-year plan, which will include the company's financial conditions, for determining increases.

Southern District Board member Lai Hok-lim said he was angry Citybus had increased the fares on routes serving public housing estates after winning its three-year franchise last September.

The 26 routes comprise two cross-harbour lines, three in Wan Chai, five in Central, and 16 in Southern District.

THE Kowloon Canton Railway Corporation (KCRC) is considering an extension of the Western Corridor from Tin Shui Wai to Tuen Mun.

United Democrat Lee Wing-tat said after a meeting with the corporation's managing board chairman Kevin Hyde yesterday that the KCRC had promised to consider extending the rail lane if the Government awarded it the project.

Mr Lee said the extension would greatly alleviate the present congestion along Tuen Mun Highway.

The Government earlier estimated the extension of the Western Corridor to Tuen Mun would cost about $6 billion.