Policy Address

139.         The Government has long adopted a public transport-oriented policy with railway as the backbone.  The Public Transport Strategy Study, expected to be completed in two and a half years, commenced in phases at the end of 2014.  The study aims to examine the functions of public transport services other than railway, and priority will be accorded to reviewing taxi and public light bus services.  Key areas of study include the feasibility of introducing premium taxis and increasing the seating capacity of public light buses.  We will also improve the assessment criteria for issuing hire car permits and the relevant regulatory system.

140.         In recent years, the Government has been pursuing bus route rationalisation vigorously through means such as reviewing and re-organising bus services in a number of districts holistically under an Area Approach and setting up more interchanges to enhance efficiency.  These efforts have yielded positive results and will continue.  The Government will also continue to promote a pedestrian-friendly environment and foster a bicycle-friendly environment in new towns and NDAs. 

141.         The Government has earmarked over $80 million to provide franchised bus companies with a subsidy to install seats at over 1 000 bus stops and real-time bus arrival information display panels for the convenience of waiting passengers.

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