Annual Report 2019

023 Transport International Holdings Limited 2019 Annual Report Business Review Hong Kong Franchised Public Bus Operations In 2019, we implemented 54 route reorganisation proposals, which enhance the whole service network and bring the following benefits to the public: Eliminating wasteful duplication of routes; Allowing resources to be released for redeployment in high demand areas; Straightening routes that are unduly circuitous; Introducing new express routes that utilise the new highway infrastructure; and Offering greater connectivity between routes by using Bus-Bus Interchanges (“BBI”). To better serve passenger needs, almost 200 KMB buses provide two wheelchair spaces to provide for the requirements of those in need. A sticker is placed on the windscreen to indicate two wheelchair spaces. Starting in 2020, passengers with special needs can carry compressed oxygen cylinders for self-medical use when travelling on KMB buses per relevant legislation. In view of demographic changes, urban development and passenger needs, KMB introduced new routes to expand the ridership. To tie in with the completion of a residential area in Tsuen Wan West and the development of Kowloon East Commercial Area, Route 33 was introduced to provide a more convenient whole-day bus service for passengers. KMB introduced Routes 213A, 213B and N213 for the convenience of people in On Tat and On Tai travelling to and from the urban areas in the morning peak and late at night. To continually improve services, KMB introduced a Morning Express Service of Routes 74F, 98B, 261S, 277A and 288C to provide more choices for commuters and students. KMB launched a customer service centre at the Tuen Mun Road Bus- Bus Interchange (Tuen Mun-bound) providing passengers waiting for buses with caring services including rest facilities, charging ports, free Wi-Fi and bus information display panels. KMB will expand the service by setting up a customer service centre at the Tuen Mun Road Bus-Bus Interchange (Kowloon-bound) in due course. KMB Monthly Pass KMB continues to enhance its service by providing affordable and convenient journeys to passengers. KMB launched the Monthly Pass Scheme, whereby passengers can take ten rides per day on KMB buses for HK$780 (and two additional trips on Route B1). The Pass covers over 400 KMB routes, including regular routes, overnight routes and racecourse routes. Jointly operated cross-harbour bus routes operated by KMB are also included in the Scheme. The KMB Monthly Pass Scheme has been well-received since its launch. Passengers have been able to buy the Monthly Pass through “App1933” since July 2019. After making the transaction, the Pass will be added to the user’s Octopus Card. In this way, passengers can enjoy a KMB Monthly Pass anytime, anywhere. During the year, the KMB Monthly Pass Kiosks were increased from 63 to 111. KMB’s bus fleet Air-conditioned double-deck buses Air-conditioned single-deck buses Total number of buses As at 1 January 2019 3,964 148 4,112 Additions during year 217 0 217 Disposals during year (243) (5) (248) As at 31 December 2019 3,938 143 4,081