The Ma On Shan Rail, linking Wu Kai Sha to Tai Wai, will start operation on December 21.

KCR Corporation chairman Michael Tien said today the managing board has carefully considered public views on Ma On Shan Rail fares and reviewed all fares in great detail.

"When the corporation decides on the final fares, we must ensure that the fare revenue could at least cover the cash operating cost of the railway," he said.

Fares

* Wu Kai Sha to: Tai Wai $5.80; Kowloon Tong $8.20; Mong Kok $8.20; Hung Hom $8.20; East Tsim Sha Tsui $11.

For journeys between Ma On Shan Station and Sheung Shui, the corporation has previously proposed a fare of $6.80. Having reviewed the competitive situation, the corporation decided that for a journey from any Ma On Shan Rail station to any East Rail domestic station north of Tai Wai to Sheung Shui (with the exception of Racecourse), the fares would be no more than $5.80.

Similarly, the fare for any Ma On Shan Rail stations to Lo Wu is set at the same fare as Tai Wai to Lo Wu. In effect, a passenger from Ma On Shan Rail can travel to any domestic station north of Tai Wai at the fare of not more than $5.80, with the exception of Racecourse (not more than $8.50) and Lo Wu ($24.20).

For fare details click here.

Charity ride

Before the official opening, a Charity Ride day will be held on December 19 from 10am to 10 pm for the public to familiarise with the new services and facilities.

Passengers will be charged the regular Ma On Shan Rail fares. All revenue will be donated to charity.