Taiwan: Transport disruptions likely through at least Feb. 15 due to Lunar New Year Celebrations

Transport disruptions are likely in Taiwan during the Lunar New Year holiday, Feb. 8-14. People usually return to their hometowns for celebrations; an increase in demand for transport services is likely in the coming weeks. Disruptions often stretch from several days before to several days after the holiday period. Many businesses close during this period, though restaurants tend to remain open.

The use of private vehicles will spike dramatically, typically resulting in significant congestion on national highways and a sharp increase in accidents. Traffic restrictions such as road closures and diversions will also be in place across Taiwan. Sections of National Freeways 1 and 3 will be closed Feb. 7-11, while sections of National Freeway 5 will be closed Feb. 7-10. Authorities have also announced several restrictions along the Suhua Road Corridor of Provincial Highway 9, including implementing two-way traffic control measures 05:00-12:00 Feb. 9 and 05:00-15:00 Feb. 10-12. Officials will also ban large trucks over 21 tons during peak hours, Feb. 8-12.

The high volume of passengers also routinely affects rail, bus, and airline networks, leading to delays. Airlines and railways will probably add additional services to meet the high demand, though overbooking may be a problem. The holiday falls during the winter months in Taiwan; poor weather could intensify disruptions.

Petty crime tends to increase before and during the Lunar New Year holiday. Regional police will likely increase patrols, deploy additional personnel, and coordinate with malls, banks, hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues to boost security in major cities.