Hong Kong will implement the revised HK$2 (26 US cents) transport fare scheme next Friday, under which elderly and disabled residents will only enjoy the flat rate for journeys costing HK$10 or less.
Authorities said on Monday that the new “HK$2 flat rate or 80 per cent discount” model would be implemented on April 3.
Beneficiaries under the revised scheme will only enjoy the HK$2 rate for journeys where the adult fare is HK$10 or less, and will have to pay 20 per cent of fares that exceed that threshold.
Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han on Monday said the original HK$2 concessionary fare aimed to build a caring and inclusive society by encouraging the elderly and people with certain disabilities to participate more in community activities.
“The ‘HK$2 flat rate or 80 per cent discount’ adjustment preserves the policy intent of the scheme while striking a balance between enhancing the sustainability of the scheme and minimising impacts on beneficiaries,” he said.
