On Wednesday, a significant landslide occurred beneath the 7-kilometer marker of Yilan Exclusive Highway No. 1 (宜專1線), leading to the collapse of approximately 15 meters of the roadway’s outer lane. This incident prompted the immediate closure of the Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area to ensure visitor safety.
Incident Overview
The landslide caused the subgrade of the road to give way, resulting in a collapse that extended about ten stories down the mountain slope. Given the risk of further erosion and potential expansion of the collapsed area, authorities decided to close the park starting at 3:30 p.m. on the day of the incident.
Evacuation Efforts
Following the collapse, forestry officials were promptly dispatched to assist the 682 visitors inside the park. All individuals were safely evacuated and guided down the mountain without reported injuries.
Closure Duration and Safety Measures
The park is tentatively scheduled to reopen next Tuesday, pending thorough safety assessments and necessary repairs to the affected roadway. The Yilan branch of the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency is actively monitoring the site to prevent further incidents.
FAQs
What caused the road collapse near Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area?
A landslide beneath the 7-kilometer marker of Yilan Exclusive Highway No. 1 led to the collapse of approximately 15 meters of the roadway’s outer lane.
Were there any injuries reported due to the landslide?
No injuries were reported. All 682 visitors present in the park at the time were safely evacuated by forestry officials.
When is the park expected to reopen?
The park is tentatively set to reopen next Tuesday, subject to safety evaluations and completion of necessary repairs.
What measures are being taken to ensure safety before reopening?
Authorities are conducting thorough assessments of the affected area, monitoring for potential further erosion, and implementing repairs to stabilize the roadway.
