The fate of Hong Kong's classic buses hangs in the balance as enthusiasts face a difficult decision. Terrence and his friend Chung, dedicated to preserving the city's transportation history, have embarked on a mission to restore a vintage China Motor Bus (CMB) double-decker. However, their ambitious HK$1 million project may be in jeopardy.
The bus, a relic from the 1960s, was acquired from a scrapyard by the previous owner, who then sold it to Terrence and Chung in 2019. Despite the engine and gearbox still functioning, the body has succumbed to rot, presenting a challenging restoration endeavor. Terrence acknowledges the financial strain, especially as he ages, and the need to allocate resources wisely for future bus restoration projects.
In a desperate attempt to save their beloved bus, Terrence and Chung have set a deadline of the end of the month. If no interested parties come forward, they plan to recycle the vehicle, a fate that many bus enthusiasts in Hong Kong fear for their cherished classics. The story highlights the delicate balance between preserving history and the practicalities of modern life.
The CMB's legacy is intertwined with Hong Kong's transportation evolution. In the 1960s, they introduced the Guy Arab, a modern double-decker built in Wolverhampton, UK, to upgrade their fleet. This move aimed to accommodate the city's growing population. CMB's pioneering role in introducing double-deckers to Hong Kong is a significant chapter in the city's history.
However, the company's fortunes took a turn in 1981 when Paliburg Investments attempted a hostile takeover, leading to a more conservative approach in bus operations. A fatal crash in 1982 and a strike by bus drivers in 1989 further exacerbated CMB's struggles. The reduction in bus routes in 1993 and 1995 signaled the beginning of the end for CMB's service.
The story of CMB's decline serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by public transportation systems. It raises questions about the delicate balance between historical preservation and the practical needs of a modern city. As Hong Kong continues to evolve, the fate of these classic buses remains uncertain, leaving enthusiasts like Terrence and Chung grappling with the decision to either restore or recycle their beloved vehicles.
