Government eyes more wheelchair accessible buses by 2016

68% of franchised buses now have whelchair access.

According to a report, all franchised buses in Hong Kong will be wheelchair accessible in 2015-16, except for a small number running on Lantau Island.

Acting Secretary for Transport & Housing Yau Shing-mu told legislators today that about 68% of franchised buses in Hong Kong are now wheelchair accessible.

The number increased from 3,602 in April 2012 to 3,855 in March 2013, representing a growth of 7%.

He said low-floored buses which allow wheelchair access are not suitable for the steep gradients and sharp bends of southern Lantau roads.

About 85% of the 3,199 trips per day to and from Tin Shui Wai allow wheelchair access, which is higher than the average rate, he said.