Councillors oppose ferry fare rises for Hong Kong’s outlying island routes

District councillors representing Hong Kong's outlying islands have voiced strong opposition to a government proposal for ferry fare increases of up to 12.8%. The Transport Department's plan targets six key routes serving islands including Cheung Chau, Lamma Island, Mui Wo, and Peng Chau. Councillors argue the hikes, driven by soaring fuel prices, will disproportionately impact elderly residents and could harm local economies by discouraging travel. The opposition was unanimous during a briefing where members raised concerns about consecutive fare increases becoming a pattern.

The financial impact is compounded by a concurrent overhaul of the public transport subsidy scheme, with both changes set to take effect on April 1. The revamped scheme eliminates a flat HK$2 fare for those aged 60+, replacing it with concessions. For trips costing up to HK$10, a partial discount applies, while rides over HK$10 receive an 80% discount. This means an elderly resident traveling from Cheung Chau to Central on a high-speed ferry could pay HK$6.58 on weekdays and HK$9.52 on Sundays—a significant increase from the previous subsidized rate. Councillors emphasized this creates a heavy burden at a time when cost-of-living pressures are already high.