‘Public transport running fine despite service cuts’

Transport Secretary Frank Chan has brushed off concerns of large-scale suspensions of public transport, after various operators cut services amid the Covid outbreak.

Recently, the MTR Corporation has reduced its services and many bus routes have been suspended, due to a shortage of staff and a sharp drop in passenger numbers.

Speaking on an RTHK show on Saturday, the transport chief said officials will make sure that people affected still have alternative transport routes.

He said the current situation remains controllable, and the overall safety and quality of public transportation is maintained.

Officials also have mechanisms in place to handle emergency situations, he added.

Meanwhile, the minister also stressed that there is no need for citizens to hoard food and daily necessities, saying there is enough supply to Hong Kong.

Chan said he has however been told by supermarkets that there is a shortage of medicine like antipyretics, and officials are working to handle the issue.

He said companies have been asked to boost their supply and are procuring medicine from around the world, and he urges citizens to stay patient, as such work takes time.

The secretary said the government will announce the details of its citywide testing exercise as soon as they’re ready.

He said officials will make sure basic public transport services will be available, the economy can run normally and citizens’ needs are catered for.