Hong Kong bus firm scraps service cuts after warning from authorities

Hong Kong bus firm scraps service cuts after warning from authorities ABC Touring Car Company says rising oil prices mean “every service is like pouring money into the sea” A Hong Kong bus operator serving commuters in Tuen Mun has scrapped plans to reduce services amid soaring oil prices after transport authorities warned that it needed to apply for any changes at least 14 days in advance. ABC Touring Car Company, which runs non-franchised bus services linking Tuen Mun and urban areas, announced on Sunday it would reduce its operations with immediate effect as a first step to cut costs. But the company, which had also warned of ceasing operations, changed course after the Transport Department’s notice requirement. Fuel bills had more than doubled since late February, pushing the business to the brink, the firm said. “It is really hard to survive these days,” the company said in a social media post on Sunday. “Our heart sinks when we look at the oil price list. For every passenger we pick up and drop off, the cost has gone up by more than HK$5 [60 US cents] in a month.” It had applied for a fare increase but said government approval would take time.