President Tsai Ing-wen officially opened Taichung’s first Mass Rapid Transit line April 25 in the central city, spotlighting the government’s commitment to fast-tracking urban development.
 
According to Tsai, her administration is leaving no stone unturned in its efforts to address Taiwan’s transport needs through policies such as the Forward-looking Infrastructure Development Program. The commencement of Taichung’s first MRT line is the result of concerted efforts by the central and local governments to help bolster the country’s economic development by streamlining transportation links, Tsai added.
 
The president made the remarks during a ceremony marking the official launch of the Taichung MRT system’s Green Line.
 
Under the FIDP, the Green Line is set to eventually extend its services to Taichung’s Dakeng and nearby Changhua County, Tsai said. A second line linking the Port of Taichung with the city’s train station is also in the planning stages to further improve local public transport options, she added.
 
Other high-profile attendees at the event included Vice Premier Shen Jong-chin, Vice President of the Legislative Yuan Tsai Chi-chang and Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen.
 
Launched in 2017, the FIDP is a comprehensive plan aimed at addressing Taiwan’s key infrastructure needs for the next 30 years. It includes projects spanning railway development, digital infrastructure, aquatic environment, food safety, green energy, urban-rural development, boosting birth rates and child care facilities, and nurturing talent and employment. (DL-E)


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