TAC briefed on measures for Walk in HK and progress of discussions on new bus franchise for KMB
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The Transport Advisory Committee (TAC) was briefed today (February 16) on the Government's measures to pursue the Walk in HK initiative, and the latest progress of the Government's discussions with the Kowloon Motor Bus Company (1933) Limited (KMB) on the granting of a new 10-year franchise.
Members of the TAC welcomed the Government's initiative to consolidate past efforts to further promote the concept of Walk in HK with a view to tackling the challenges posed by climate change, promoting the sustainable development of Hong Kong, encouraging a healthy lifestyle, strengthening community interaction and building an age-friendly environment.
The TAC Chairman, Mr Larry Kwok, said, "Members support the Walk in HK programme to encourage people to walk the first mile to and last mile from public transport. We hope that initiatives launched under the themes of 'make it smart', 'make it connected', 'make it enjoyable' and 'make it safe' will make Hong Kong a more walkable city."
Separately, the current franchise of the KMB will expire in July this year and the TAC was briefed at the meeting today on the progress of discussions on granting the new 10-year franchise for KMB.
Mr Kwok said, "The TAC notes that the Government's discussion with the KMB has progressed well. The KMB has all along been providing a proper and efficient bus service under its current franchise. It is willing to continue to invest in bus operation, including making an investment of around $3.8 billion for bus fleet replacement in the coming five years.
"Members welcome that the KMB has agreed to fully take on board the new franchise terms and service commitments of the two franchises granted in 2015 (i.e. franchises of Citybus Limited (Franchise for Hong Kong Island and Cross-Harbour Bus Network) and New Lantao Bus Company (1973) Limited). The KMB has also committed to further enhancing its service quality under the new franchise, such as providing free Wi-Fi services in bus compartments and improving ancillary facilities, as well as introducing various fare concession initiatives. The TAC will make its recommendations to the Chief Executive in Council on the granting of the new franchise at an appropriate juncture," Mr Kwok added.
Ends/Thursday, February 16, 2017
Issued at HKT 18:00
Issued at HKT 18:00
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