The following is issued on behalf of the Transport Advisory Committee:

     The Transport Advisory Committee (TAC) was briefed by the Government today (March 25) on the operation of Kowloon Motor Bus Company (1933) Limited (KMB) and New Lantao Bus Company (1973) Limited (NLB), and the work associated with the new franchises following the expiry of the current franchises, as well as the latest progress of the Universal Accessibility Programme (UA Programme).

     At present, there are four bus franchisees operating five bus franchises in Hong Kong. NLB's current franchise will expire on March 1, 2027, whereas KMB's current franchise will expire on July 1, 2027. Both KMB and NLB have indicated to the Government their intention to continue to operate public bus services under a new franchise upon expiry of the current ones. The Transport Department has long been regularly reviewing franchisees' performance standards, including overall operations, passenger service improvements and safety enhancements. The Government is considering the operators' intention to apply for new franchises and will strive for the stability of franchised bus services and push for enhancement of service and safety standards while maintaining long-term financial sustainability.

     The TAC Chairman, Professor Wong Sze-chun, said, "Members welcome the Government's efforts in ensuring proper and efficient public bus services of the operators during the franchise period under the current mechanism. Members have expressed their views on franchised bus services and also supported the Government's work associated with the new franchises, along with endeavouring to ensure the stability and continuous improvement of franchised bus services for the benefit of members of the public."

     At the meeting, members were also briefed by the Highways Department (HyD) on the latest progress of the UA Programme.

     The Government has been striving to create a barrier-free and accessible environment, and launched the UA Programme in August 2012 to proactively retrofit barrier-free access facilities at walkways. The Programme has been well received by the community, with its scope subsequently expanded to cover more walkways. As at the end of February 2026, 272 items were completed under the UA Programme, accounting for approximately 70 per cent of the total. It is estimated that the remaining items will be completed progressively over the coming few years.

     The HyD will, in accordance with the principle of holistic planning and phased implementation, commence technical feasibility studies this year for retrofitting lifts at other walkways across the territory that fall within the ambit of the UA Programme, with a view to benefitting more elderly people and those in need.

     Professor Wong said, "Members have taken note of the latest progress and future plan of the Programme, and are pleased to see that the Government continues to retrofit barrier-free access facilities at walkways, while striving to enhance the efficiency of project implementation and incorporate more elements which could bring convenience and benefits to citizens. Members expect that the Programme will continue to bring convenience to the public and enhance their sense of happiness and contentment."

Ends/Wednesday, March 25, 2026
Issued at HKT 17:05

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