All aboard: People taking pictures of the newly renovated Peak Tram on its first day of operations in Hong Kong. — AFP
Hong Kong: The Peak Tram, Hong Kong’s famed public transport and tourist draw, reopened after a year-long US$102mil (RM455mil) facelift even as the city’s coronavirus curbs continue to keep overseas visitors at bay.
The historic funicular, which dates back to 1888 and offers panoramic views of Hong Kong’s famous skyline as it ascends to Victoria Peak, used to draw over six million visitors a year, according to its operator.
The latest makeover brought more spacious tramcars that accommodate 210 passengers, a full overhaul of its rail systems and a redesigned terminus at the heart of Hong Kong’s central business district.
The Peak Tram closed for upgrades in June 2021, a period when the finance hub’s border controls all but wiped out its tourism industry.
The redevelopment went overbudget by around US$15mil (RM67mil), which its operator attributed to supply difficulties during the pandemic.
An adult return ticket now costs HK$88 (RM49), a nearly 70% jump from before the makeover. — AFP
