The HK$2 ($0.025) public transport fare concession program for the elderly and eligible persons with disabilities will change from a HK$2 flat fare to a "HK$2 flat rate or 80 percent discount" starting April 3, Hong Kong authorities said Monday.     

Beneficiaries will continue to pay HK$2 for trips with an adult fare of HK$10 or below but, for trips with an adult fare above HK$10, they will have to pay 80 percent off the full fare, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government said in a statement.

It added that the adjustment applies to interchange journeys.

"The HK$2 Scheme aims to build a caring and inclusive society by encouraging the elderly and eligible persons with disabilities to participate more in community activities,” Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han was quoted as saying in the statement.  

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He said the "HK$2 flat rate or 80 percent discount" adjustment preserves the policy intent of the program "while striking a balance between enhancing its sustainability and minimizing impacts on beneficiaries."

The targeted beneficiaries of the program--those aged 60 years or above and those with disabilities--remain unchanged and those eligible can continue to enjoy the scheme using a JoyYou card or a personalized Octopus card encoded with "Persons with Disabilities Status".