The operator of four minibus routes in Hong Kong’s New Territories has been overcharging passengers by as much as HK$1 per trip for more than two months, transport authorities have revealed, calling it unacceptable.
The Transport Department said on Saturday the four green-top minibus routes – 501A, 501C, 501K and 501S – operated by Fully Mint Limited had been charging passengers more than the approved fares since May 19.
The overcharging was uncovered during regular checks with the differential ranging from 30 HK cents to HK$1 per trip, the department said.
A spokesman said the department was very concerned about the “unacceptable” incident, adding that refunds of the overcharged fares would be arranged.
“We are following up on the incident seriously and have instructed the green minibus operator and relevant stored value facility operators to conduct thorough investigations and submit a report,” the spokesman said.
“The four routes have resumed charging at their original fares since their first departures [on Saturday]. We have demanded and the green minibus operator has agreed to arrange for full refund of the overcharged fares to the affected passengers.”
The department said the minibus firm and stored value facility operators would inform the affected passengers of refund arrangements as soon as possible and provide necessary facilitation.
“The Transport Department will follow up and monitor the refund arrangements,” the spokesman said.
The full fare for routes 501A, 501C and 501K, which cover parts of Fanling, is HK$5.40. The full fare for route 501S, between Sheung Shui station and Kwun Tong, costs HK$27.
Green-top minibuses are government-regulated and must adhere to specific routes and schedules.
Many minibus operators have been struggling for survival after finding themselves unable to service debts, prompting some to leave the trade altogether.
About 100 minibuses were towed away earlier this year after owners failed to repay bank loans, with the operators pointing to practical pandemic-induced challenges.
The public learned of the minibus confiscation after some banks were said to have demanded several owners repay loans amid a sharp decrease in the prices of the vehicles’ licence plates. Many owners were said to have abandoned their vehicles at minibus stops or in the countryside.
Driving a taxi or a minibus in Hong Kong requires a special licence with a quota in place, making it a speculative commodity that has its own betting market.
