What's happened
Edinburgh Trams is set to launch a new contactless fare system, 'ToTo', which will cap daily fares. Meanwhile, Hong Kong will implement fare increases for trams and introduce a subsidy scheme for elderly and disabled passengers starting in 2026. Both changes aim to improve public transport affordability and efficiency.
What's behind the headline?
Edinburgh Trams' 'ToTo' System
- The new 'ToTo' system will allow passengers to 'tap on' and 'tap off', ensuring they only pay for the distance traveled.
- This system aims to simplify fare calculations and enhance user experience, potentially increasing tram usage.
Hong Kong's Fare Adjustments
- The fare increase for Hong Kong trams is a response to rising operational costs and competition from other transport modes.
- The introduction of a 20% fare charge for elderly and disabled passengers exceeding HK$10 aims to reduce government spending while maintaining service accessibility.
- Critics may argue that these changes could disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, highlighting the need for careful implementation and communication.
What the papers say
According to Jane Bradley from The Scotsman, Edinburgh Trams is nearing the launch of its new contactless fare system, which will cap fares at the best-value daily rate. This initiative follows the successful expansion of tram services to Newhaven in 2023. In contrast, Alastair Dalton discusses the complexities of rail fares in Scotland, emphasizing the potential for savings through split ticketing, which reflects ongoing concerns about affordability in public transport.
Meanwhile, the South China Morning Post reports on Hong Kong's upcoming fare increases for trams, which the government deems necessary for operational stability. The adjustments, including a new subsidy scheme for elderly and disabled passengers, have sparked debate about their impact on vulnerable groups. Chris Sun Yuk-han, Secretary for Labour and Welfare, stated that these changes would save the government HK$260 million, indicating a focus on fiscal responsibility amidst rising costs.
How we got here
Edinburgh Trams is finalizing a new fare system developed with Flowbird, enhancing contactless payments. In Hong Kong, the government is adjusting transport subsidies and fares to address operational costs and encourage public transport use amid rising expenses.
Go deeper
- What are the benefits of the new fare system?
- How will the fare increases affect commuters in Hong Kong?
- What other changes are being made to public transport in these regions?
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