Taiwan: Authorities close sections of district roads 7 and 8 in Yilan and Hualien counties as of Oct. 19 due to landslides

Event

Authorities are working to clear several sections of District Road 7 in Yilan County, and a portion of District Road 8 in Hualien County as of Oct. 19 after heavy rainfall prompted several landslides. The Ministry of Transportation and Communication (MOTC) indicates that at least three sections of District Road 7 are affected in Fuxing District, Taoyuan City, and the Mingchi Road section outside of Datong Township, Yilan County. Officials are working to clear these areas as soon as possible, and traffic could resume in the coming days.

However, MOTC will conduct more substantive works to restore traffic on the Yingshi and Paiguxi road sections of District Road 7. Authorities plan to reopen the affected area along Yinshi Road by Oct. 22 and Paiguxi Road by Oct. 31. Repair work will continue on District Road 8 between Guanyuan and Jinma Tunnel through at least Nov. 7.

Transport disruptions between northern Taiwan and the affected areas of Yilan and Hualien counties will continue until repairs are complete. Increased congestion is possible on alternative routes, especially district routes 2 and 9. Shipping delays are likely, and increased demand for goods is possible in towns in the affected area in the near term as residents stock up on supplies.

Advice

Plan for shipping disruptions if moving goods in the affected areas. Use available routes until traffic resumes. Plan for increased demand for alternative transport, including train services.