Fair fare: Transport Advisory Committee Chairman Teresa Cheng says the KCRC has struck a reasonable balance in setting the Tsim Sha Tsui Extension's fares.

The Transport Advisory Committee has endorsed Tsim Sha Tsui Extension fares, saying the KCRC has taken into consideration passengers' acceptability, market competitiveness and the project cost in setting the price.

Committee Chairman Teresa Cheng said: "We believe the KCRC has achieved a reasonable balance between the interests of the corporation and passengers."

Members welcomed the KCRC's initiative to arrange intermodal discounts with other public transport operators. They said the discount for East Rail passengers interchanging with the MTR at Tsim Sha Tsui Station will be an effective measure to enhance the attractiveness of the extension, which will officially open October 24.

Meanwhile, the committee also welcomed the proposal to introduce the Probationary Driving Licence Scheme to novice private car and light goods vehicle drivers.

"The scheme could serve as extended training for inexperience drivers, allowing them to accumulate sufficient on-road driving experience. At the same time, the 'P' plate will remind other drivers to be more cautious of and patient with novice drivers," Ms Cheng said.