About 2.4 million people may be affected by proposals, as experts warn that solutions will not be simple.
Hong Kong's HK$2 transport fare scheme, introduced in 2012, provides subsidized travel for elderly residents aged 60 and above, as well as those with disabilities, to encourage community participation. However, due to the city's budget deficit, the government is considering reforms, including capping subsidized trips at 240 per month and requiring users to pay 20% of the fare for trips over HK$10. The scheme, which reimburses operators for the difference between the HK$2 fare and the usual fare, has become a significant financial burden. Recognized as fiscally unsustainable, these changes aim to address the scheme's financial impact on the public coffers.