'Elderly Ride Scheme Could Go From HK$2 To HK$3'

The government said it may increase by as much as 50 percent the fare elderly people have to pay on public transport as it seeks to ease pressure on public finances.

Speaking on a television programme aired on Sunday, welfare minister Law Chi-kwong said a review will be conducted, and the subsidised fare may increase from HK$2 to HK$3, reflecting inflation and an increase in fares for other passengers.

“It could also go up to HK$2.20 or HK$2.50,” he added.

Netizens reacted differently to the news of a possible fare hike, with some elderly people saying it'd still be a relatively good offer.

Some internet users, however, slammed the government for being mean to the elderly.

"That's so cheap!" one user on the internet forum LIHKG said.

Others, however, accused the elderly of slowing down traffic during peak hours, saying their fares should double from HK$2 to HK$4.

The Chief Executive had announced early last year that the HK$2 scheme, which currently applies to people aged 65 or above, would be extended to those aged between 60 and 64.

However, the government said last week that the new policy will not be in place for another year as officials need to give out personalised Octopus cards to prevent abuse.