In the wake of Typhoon Kong-rey, President Lai Ching-te and top officials surveyed eastern Taiwan, ensuring rapid support for local farmers. Site visits included farmland in Yilan, Hualien, and Taitung, where major crop losses were reported. Lai assured an expedited relief process, promising cash handouts and low-interest loans.
Typhoon Kong-rey Damage Overview
| Area | Crop Damage | Loss Estimate (NT$) |
|---|---|---|
| Yunlin County | Various crops | $170 million |
| Hualien County | Silver willows, etc. | $150 million |
| Yilan County | Green onions, tea | 53% damage rate |
Relief Plans and Immediate Actions
Direct Financial Aid
The relief package includes cash handouts for affected farmers, alongside low-interest loans for crop restoration. President Lai directed county governments to accelerate crop damage assessments, especially for regions like Yilan, where vital local produce was devastated.
Agricultural Focus Areas
In Hualien and Taitung, specific focus is placed on high-impact crops like sugar apples, bananas, and citrus. Farmers can apply for procurement of damaged crops, minimizing financial strain.
Infrastructure Improvements
In response to power outages and infrastructure damage, Premier Cho revealed a new islandwide project to install underground cables, set for completion by mid-2025. This initiative aims to enhance the region’s resilience to future storms.
Government Commitment to Farmers
Taiwan’s administration is reviewing aid policies, potentially increasing relief to provide better coverage for losses. Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim, during a visit to Taitung, acknowledged farmers’ requests for enhanced support as they recover from substantial damages.
FAQs
- Who is eligible for the relief aid?
Farmers in Taiwan whose crops were damaged by Typhoon Kong-rey can apply for financial aid and low-interest loans. - What types of aid are provided?
Relief includes cash handouts, low-interest loans, and government procurement of damaged crops. - How soon can farmers expect aid?
Authorities are working to expedite damage assessments to release funds quickly. - Are infrastructure upgrades part of the relief?
Yes, an islandwide project will replace overhead cables with underground ones to reduce future storm impact. - Could the aid amount be increased?
The government is reviewing current relief regulations and may consider additional support based on needs.
