New Taipei Metro’s Circular Line (Yellow Line) will officially return to full service on Thursday, December 14th, at noon. This marks the completion of necessary repairs on the final section of the line, which was damaged during the massive 7.2 magnitude earthquake that struck Taiwan in April. Mayor Hou Yu-ih confirmed that the repairs are now complete, and safety tests have been successfully conducted.
Details of the Repair and Restoration Process
The Circular Line, which connects vital areas across New Taipei City, faced significant disruption following the earthquake on April 3. The most severe damage occurred between Banxin and Zhongyuan stations, where box girders were displaced, causing alignment issues. The strong earthquake led to the closure of the line, impacting commuters who rely on the MRT for daily travel.
Although other sections of the line were quickly assessed and restored to service shortly after the quake, the stretch between Banqiao and Zhonghe remained closed for repairs. Over the past several months, workers have been focused on restoring safety and infrastructure to this crucial segment.
Safety Inspections and Resumption of Service
After extensive work on the affected section, safety inspections were carried out to ensure the integrity of the repairs. With all safety protocols met and the line cleared for full operation, the service will resume at noon on Thursday, December 14. The mayor confirmed that passengers will be able to travel without disruption once the line reopens.
Timeline of Events:
| Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Earthquake Strikes | April 3, 2024 | A 7.2 magnitude earthquake hits Taiwan, causing significant damage to the MRT Circular Line. |
| Partial Service Restoration | April 2024 | Service resumes for most of the Circular Line except the Banqiao-Zhonghe section. |
| Final Repairs Completed | December 2024 | Repairs on the Banqiao-Zhonghe section are completed. |
| Full Service Resumes | December 14, 2024 | The Circular Line resumes full operations with no further interruptions. |
Impact on Commuters and Future Plans
The restoration of the Circular Line is a relief for many commuters in the New Taipei area, who faced inconveniences during the line’s closure. The return to full service will improve transportation options and reduce congestion across the city’s transportation network. The MRT’s Circular Line remains an essential part of the public transportation system in New Taipei, helping thousands of residents and workers travel daily.
FAQ:
1. When will the Circular Line return to full service?
The Circular Line will return to full service on Thursday, December 14th, at noon.
2. Which section of the MRT Circular Line was affected by the earthquake?
The section between Banqiao and Zhonghe stations was severely damaged during the earthquake, leading to its extended closure.
3. Was the entire Circular Line closed after the earthquake?
No, while some parts of the line were damaged, most sections were reopened for service shortly after the earthquake. The Banqiao-Zhonghe section remained closed for repairs.
4. How long did it take to complete the repairs?
The repairs were completed over several months, with the final segment expected to reopen by December 14.
5. Is the Circular Line safe now?
Yes, after extensive repairs and safety inspections, the Circular Line has been deemed safe for full service.
