Taiwan: Transport and business disruptions to continue islandwide through April 7 due to Qingming Festival

Taiwan is marking the Qingming Festival April 4. Millions of people will tend to their ancestors' gravesites during the festival, and many businesses and most government facilities will close for the long weekend holiday, April 4-7.

Large numbers of people typically travel during and after Qingming. Private vehicle use will likely spike, resulting in significant congestion on national highways and an increase in accidents. Traffic disruptions are probable even in relatively remote communities, as many people will travel to ancestral villages and tombs in rural areas. The high volume of passengers will likely affect rail, bus, and airline networks. Repair and recovery operations due to road and other infrastructure damage may worsen travel disruptions in areas heavily impacted by the April 3 earthquake.

The holiday also carries an increased risk of fires, especially in forested areas, as many participants will burn symbolic paper offerings in honor of their ancestors.