The HK$2 concessionary transport fare for elderly and disabled residents has been a cornerstone of welfare in Hong Kong for the past 12 years. With nearly a quarter of the population aged 65 or older, the scheme has provided essential support to many. In 2022, the initiative was expanded to include individuals aged 60-64, increasing the number of eligible participants by over 600,000 [3b8c6010]. However, public spending on this subsidy has surged, with HK$3.9 billion allocated for the 2023-24 fiscal year [3b8c6010].
Despite the rising costs, Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han has confirmed that there are no current plans to cancel the scheme. Nonetheless, the government is actively evaluating its feasibility in light of a budget deficit exceeding HK$100 billion [3b8c6010]. This scrutiny comes as nearly 10,000 cases of abuse have been uncovered in just 17 months, raising concerns about the integrity of the program [3b8c6010].
In a related development, HK Express has recently announced the reintroduction of HK$2 one-way flights for Hongkongers aged 65 and above, allowing seniors to travel to over 20 Asian destinations [7d336ed5]. This initiative is part of a broader effort by airlines to cater to the needs of older adults, especially in the wake of the pandemic. Greater Bay Airlines and Cathay Pacific are also offering competitive pricing and discounts for seniors, further enhancing travel options [7d336ed5].
As these developments unfold, maintaining the integrity of the HK$2 fare scheme remains paramount. The government must balance the need for support among the elderly and disabled with the financial sustainability of such welfare programs [3b8c6010].