Majority agree with tightening HK$2 public transport fare scheme: survey

A survey conducted by the Democratic Party revealed that nearly 60 percent of respondents support increasing the age eligibility for the HK$2 public transport fare subsidy scheme to 65 years. 

This survey carried out from December of last year until early this month, involved 943 participants of various age groups, with nearly 30 percent aged above 60, interviewed via phone.

The findings also indicated that about 70 percent of respondents believe there should be a cap on the amount that can be utilized under the subsidy. Additionally, over 65 percent are satisfied with the scheme, and nearly 70 percent agree that it has helped the elderly engage more in economic and social activities.

Lo Kin-hei, Chairperson of the Democratic Party, stated that the survey results demonstrate a rational attitude among locals towards the scheme and highlighted that there is still room for discussion.

The party proposed setting limits on the number of times and the amount the subsidy can be used. It also suggested removing the scheme's coverage for port shuttles and called for the disclosure of data, such as that from the JoyYou Card, to facilitate more in-depth research into the elderly's travel habits for further discussions.

Furthermore, the party urged bus companies to fully implement two-way section fare collection measures, believing that this would significantly reduce government subsidy expenditures.