Cats and dogs will be allowed on board Hong Kong’s light rail trains on weekends and holidays starting in May, the MTR Corporation (MTRC) has announced.
The two-month trial scheme will begin on May 1, the city’s railway operator announced in a statement on Tuesday.
Commuters who wish to bring along their furry friends are required to buy a HK$99 electronic pass every month. The pet pass will be available for purchase on the MTR Mobile app starting from April 11.
The pass will allow passengers to bring one pet for unlimited rides during weekends and public holidays, the company said. Pet owners still have to pay their fares as usual.
Passengers must put their pets – limited to only cats and dogs – inside a carrier or backpack and ensure it is fully closed before entering the platform area, the MTRC said.
The size of the carrier must also comply with the luggage requirements stated in the current MTR regulations.
The MTRC will also require passengers travelling with pets to only board and alight from the last door of the light rail trains. They must remain at the rear of the compartment throughout the entire trip, the company said.
“We recognise the growing public demand for facilitating cat/dog travel and hope to contribute to promoting an inclusive community,” said Cheris Lee, chief of operating and metro segment of the MTRC, on Tuesday.
“We will get prepared for operational support and closely monitor the situation during the trial period,” she added.
The light rail network covers parts of Yuen Long, Tuen Mun, and Tin Shui Wai in the North West New Territories.
The railway operator said it consulted the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) for advice on the trial scheme and training for frontline staff.
The animal rights group said in the same statement that pet owners should use a well-ventilated and spacious carrier, and take their dogs for a bathroom break before boarding.
“The trial on Light Rail marks an important first step toward greater inclusivity in Hong Kong,” said SPCA Deputy Director (Welfare) Fiona Woodhouse. “By making this trial a success, we hope the initiative can be expanded further in the near future.”
Local media HK01 reported earlier this month that the MTRC was considering relaxing regulations on boarding public transport with animals.
