Iconic 'Ding Ding' seeking 10pc fare hike amid rising operational costs

Tram riders may have to pay 10 percent more in the future, as Hong Kong Tramways has submitted a fare hike application to increase adult fare from HK$3 to HK$3.30, and from HK$1.50 to HK$1.60 for children aged three to 11 and senior citizens.

However, the price for monthly passes will stay the same at HK$260.

In a statement released today, the tram operator said farebox revenue remains its critical income stream alongside commercial partnerships, even though the ridership is 15 percent lower than pre-pandemic levels in 2018.

The company justified the fare adjustments with rising operational costs and the need to sustain investments in fleet maintenance and upgrades, saying it aims to sustain the operational viability of its iconic tram services.

“The proposed adjustment is essential to fund heritage compliant technical system enhancements and expand non-ticket revenue projects, ensuring long-term service continuity,” Tramways said.

“Even after the adjustment, Tramways will retain its position as Hong Kong’s most affordable public transport option.”

In recent years, the company has prioritized investments to balance operational viability with service quality, including substantial salary adjustments for motormen and technicians to align with current labor market conditions, it added.

It said it has also put in resources in modernization efforts, including the progressive renewal of tramcars, track infrastructure and onboard systems to improve safety and reliability.

According to the Legislative Council’s agenda, the panel on transport will discuss the fare hike application next Friday (Feb 21). 

In response to media enquiries, the government said it will consider a range of factors while scrutinizing the application in accordance with established procedures.

That includes the quantity and quality of services, the current change and future forecast of operating costs and revenue, as well as the public's acceptance of the fare hike.

"As always, we will perform the gate-keeping duties with our best endeavor and the application will be handled in a prudent manner," a government spokesman added.

The company’s last fare hike was in 2022.

The city’s iconic tram system, also known as “Ding Ding” in Cantonese, has been running for 120 years on Hong Kong Island and is now operating a fleet of 165 tramcars, carrying up to 150,000 passengers every day.

(Jamie Liu)

(Updated at 9.40pm)