Bus fare hikes starting from Sunday irk commuters

Citizens expressed their ire at the fare increases implemented by bus operators, as the new pricing took effect on Sunday amidst the prevailing economic challenges.  

Citybus has raised fares by 7.5 percent, while New Lantao Bus and KMB increased their fares by 6.5 percent and 4.3 percent, respectively.  

Around 80 percent of passengers are expected to pay no more than 50 HK cents extra per trip after the new fares are implemented, while about 95 percent will pay no more than HK$1 extra.  

The maximum increase per trip is up to HK$2.  

Commuters grumbled that they had no choice but to accept the higher fares as they had to take the buses to work.  

However, some found the fare hike acceptable as they are accustomed to taking the MTR and consider it a way to stimulate the economy.  

The government stated that it takes a cautious approach to minimize the impact on citizens' livelihoods when reviewing fare increase applications from bus operators.