The MTR announced today (March 25) that it will launch a cat/dog carrying trial scheme in the light rail network from May 1 onwards.
The head of MTR operations and local railroads, Cheris Lee Yuen-ling, said that the MTR has been aware of the changes in society in recent years, and that many families regard their pets as part of the family. The purpose of launching the scheme is to collect data and accumulate experience, and if necessary, consideration will be given to extending the trial scheme.
Lee said that MTR, as a major public transport operator in Hong Kong, is committed to providing safe, reliable and efficient services. Considering the millions of passengers it carries every day and the need to maintain a safe and smooth service, the MTR needs to balance the different needs of the public and the need for passengers to comply with the rules and regulations, especially the time, place and method of transportation.
Lee pointed out that the pet bags carried, need to comply with the regulations, luggage size length, width and height of the sum of not more than 170cm, the length of any one side can not exceed 130cm, there is no plan to include larger cats and dogs. Asked whether she would prosecute non-compliant pet owners, she reiterated that the scheme is a pilot one at this stage, and for the time being, owners will be advised through education.
On April 11, National Pet Day, MTR will put on sale the card of traveling with pets at a cost of HK$99 per card. Members of the public can purchase the card through MTR Mobile, and can buy one card per month, which allows them to bring one cat or dog on board the train per trip. Passengers with the pass can bring their cats or dogs on unlimited rides on all light rail lines on weekends or public holidays in valid months.
MTR reminds passengers to use a commercially available bag for dogs and cats that complies with the baggage regulations. Dogs and cats must be placed inside the bag and kept closed at all times while traveling on light rail platforms and during journeys. Passengers with dogs and cats must board and alight at the tailgate of each light rail train and remain at the rear of the train, while other passengers may board at the front of the train.
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