‘Public transport will still run during mass testing’

Transport secretary Frank Chan said on Monday that there will not be a complete halt of public transport services during the upcoming citywide Covid testing exercise.

Speaking on a radio show, Chan said public transport is crucial to many people who need to travel to work to provide essential services, such as those in the medical and financial sectors.

He said public transport is also needed to send people who test positive to isolation facilities, as well as to send resources to people in need, such as elderly people living alone.

But he said the frequency and capacity of public transport will be reduced.

The transport chief also revealed that the government will consider allowing one person from each family to head out to buy daily necessities during the mass testing.

He said overseas countries also have similar arrangements, and officials will ensure that people have the food and daily necessities they need.

Assistance will also be provided to people and families in need, such as through a support hotline, Chan said.

He said details of the plan will be announced when they’re ready.