Hong Kong is a city with one of the world's best public transport systems, varying from its fast metro to buses and ferries. But the oldest of the networks, the 100-plus-year-old tram, is struggling to keep pace.
Hong Kong tramcars -- affectionately called "Ding Ding" , are an icon of the city.
One of the oldest networks, these double-decker trams have stood the test of time for over a hundred years, but they now face some challenges.
The network carried 5 hundred thousand people a day in the 1960s. That has dwindled to only 185 thousand today, as the metro, buses and private cars tempt passengers away.
With no government subsidy, fares are fixed at only HK$2.30 a ride. Big investment is needed to keep the aging network functioning. But the Hong Kong tram is becoming a tough business proposition.
"It’s a tough job, but we have a large resource of people. We are working out how to make sure our service can meet passengers' expectation. We have improved a lot in reacting to the competition. We received very positive feedback from our passengers," said Emmanuel Vivant, managing director of HK Tramways.
The tram is very convenient, with six lines plying the island and stops every 250 meters so passengers can hop on and off.
But as congestion grows, some have suggested reducing the tram route to make space for private cars. This has drawn strong opposition from most locals.
Many Hong Kong people love the tram. Getting onboard to sway through the busy districts of Hong Kong island is the perfect way to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of this city. It is also the most environmentally friendly and cheapest mode of public transport.
However, the elderly tram network must compete with efficient buses and metro. The first tram with air conditioning appeared in June to beat the scorching summer heat. Passengers can finally have a cool ride, along with some other fantastic experiences.
"We have a number of measures. This tram is a good example. It’s a new tram, 100 percent homemade in Hong Kong. It’s like a traditional tram, but it’s new. It’s made of wood, the sitting is comfortable. There is a new engine, new brake system, realtime passenger information. We developed scientific menu to dispatch our trams," said Emmanuel Vivant.
Though the tram faces unprecedented challenges, its operators are optimistic about the future. They say fares are not enough to cover expenses, but advertising keeps profits up. And they propose building new tramlines in other parts of the city. It’s good news for locals, who want to preserve and further develop this convenient and affordable transport. They hope “Ding, Ding” , the sound of the tram bell, will be heard in the city for another 100 years.
