Kaohsiung enhances Elderly Card with free transport and increased benefits

Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai has announced a significant enhancement to the city's "Elderly Card" program, set to take effect in July. The initiative aims to provide greater benefits and convenience for senior citizens in the southern Taiwanese metropolis.

A key upgrade involves free access to several public transportation options. Starting July 1, seniors can use their Elderly Card for complimentary rides on the Kaohsiung Light Rail, bus-style taxis (often referred to as "little yellow buses"), and the "Happiness Bus" service. This move is expected to improve mobility and reduce transportation costs for the elderly population.

Beyond transportation, the program's financial benefits are also being boosted. The monthly point allocation for the Elderly Card will increase substantially, from 1,200 points annually to 600 points per month, totaling 7,200 points annually. Furthermore, new discounts will be introduced for services at municipal hospitals, district health centers, and various recreational and cultural venues across the city.

Additional benefits include an increased subsidy for taxi rides, from 50 to 85 points. The card can also be used to purchase monthly passes for public transport through the MeNGo app, offering unlimited rides on city buses, MRT, light rail, ferries, and even Taiwan Railways trains under specific conditions. These passes also include free access to YouBike 2.0 bike-sharing services for the first 30 minutes of each ride.