Improving accessible transport with Southern District Rehab Access

In light of the geographical limitations and a lack of accessible transport services, The Society was commissioned by the Southern District Council as the service provider for “Southern District Rehab Access”, one of Southern District’s signature projects to meet the transport needs of the residents. This project was proposed after research studies and consultations were carried out to review the passenger traffic of Rehabus in different districts.

Eight wheelchair-accessible vehicles will be deployed to operate a fixed-route shuttle bus service, with both fixed schedules and a pre-booked share-ride service. The service will be provided to residents of Southern District with mobility difficulties and their carers to attend medical appointments at public hospitals and healthcare facilities in the district. The new services will cover residential areas that include, but not limited to Tin Wan Estate, Wah Kwai Estate, Shek Pai Wan Estate and Ap Lei Chau. Apart from that, the services provide connections between the South Districts and other districts on Hong Kong Island, such as Chai Wan, Shau Kei Wan and Wan Chai.

The service is expected to be officially launched in 2020. To enhance customer experience, the new vehicles will be equipped with a Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite positioning device. Passengers can use either the mobile application (app) or website to obtain real-time information, such as the location of the vehicle, the estimated time of arrival, and the availability of vacant seats. Passengers can also reserve seats up to seven days in advance through the service hotline or the app.