Politics and planning: an analysis of the role of MTRC in Hong Kong

Abstract

As Hong Kong is a densely populated metropolis, efficient public transport is needed to maintain an acceptable level of mobility. Transport policies have been developed with this aim and railways have been given a unique role in the passenger network. One of the objectives in Hong Kong Moving Ahead - A Transport Strategy for the Future was to use railways as the backbone of the transport network. Besides this, the Railway Development Study and Railway Development Study 2000 also showed strong government support for expanding the railway network.

In 2000, the MTRC was privatized and became a listed company on the stock exchange. It carried on using the integrated railway – property development model to finance its operations. Moreover, it continued to enjoy privileges and advantages usually given to statutory corporations. After the merger with KCRC in 2006, the MTR became a railway monopoly earning substantial profits every year. With beneficial government policies, the relationship was defined as a railway policy regime. Moreover, a policy regime change has not occurred and improvements in public participation and railway governance were proposed.