Public views on Ma On Shan Rail fares will be considered, Kowloon-Canton Railway Corporation Chairman Michael Tien says, adding he is confident the rail can start operation before the end of the year.

Mr Tien told legislators today the railway systems have been tested and commissioned. On fares, he said the corporation has adopted the same methodology previously used in setting fares for the West Rail and the Tsim Sha Tsui Extension.

For the new railway to be financially viable, the bottom line is that fare revenue must be sufficient to cover at least the cash operating cost of the railway within a reasonable period of time, he said.

Proposed fares

* Ma On Shan to Kowloon Tong $8.20, Tai Wai $5.80, Tsim Sha Tsui $11, Central $17.40 (including MTR fare);

* Wu Kai Sha to Tai Shui Hang $3.70; and,

* Shek Mun to Che Kung Temple $3.70.

Nine bus routes will offer fare concessions ranging from 50 cents to $1, and green minibus routes 803, 804 and 810 will offer a $1 concession.

The corporation proposes to cancel the free feeder bus service offered by KMB route K11, plying City One and Royal Ascot via Fo Tan Station, as passengers can take the Ma On Shan Rail to connect with the East Rail.

Further consultation

Mr Tien said the corporation will brief District Councils on the proposed fares and consult passengers and community groups soon. The final fares will be decided and announced before the new rail starts service.

Extending from Wu Kai Sha Station in Ma On Shan to an interchange at the East Rail's Tai Wai Station, the 11.4-km link has nine stations, and the journey takes about 16 minutes.