XN000022-1973-06-15 — Page 2

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Friday, June 15, 1973

IMPROVED BUS SERVICES FOR THE NEW TERRITORIES

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Bus services in the New Territories are to be reshaped and expanded

to cope with the increasing population and demand for services.

At the same time, the fare structure for KMB routes in the New

Territories will be revised to allow for a number of increases and reductions.

The changes will come into effect on July 16 under an order by the

Governor-in-Council which is published in today's gazette.

The plans for reshaping and expanding bus routes in the New Territories

were produced by the Kowloon Motor Bus Company, in consultation with the

Transport Department, and are supported by the Heung Yee Kuk.

As from July 16, the number of bus routes will be increased from 36

to 48 and the frequency on most routes will be stepped up. Another 91 double

deckers and three single deckers will be added to the NT fleet of 226 buses,

making a total of 320 (205 single deckers and 115 double deckers).

These vehicles are already available and no buses will need to be

withdrawn from urban routes

In addition, two long-distance express services will be introduced

from Kowloon to Yuen Long and Sheung Shui. These routes will be served by a

new type of double deck coach with more room and more comfortable seats.

The coaches will be able to carry a maximum of 65 passengers, but

no standing passengers will be permitted.

Work is now in progress to remove overhanging branches from roadside

trees to enable the double deck coaches to pass through.

/Commenting