In response to a significant increase in hiking-related accidents, Taiwan has implemented extensive safety measures across its mountainous regions. The Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency announced the installation of thousands of directional signs and mobile network coverage indicators to aid hikers and reduce emergency incidents.
🧭 Enhanced Trail Signage and Mobile Coverage
Since the government eased restrictions on over 80 forestry roads in late 2019, there has been a notable surge in mountain tourism. This increase has unfortunately led to a rise in accidents, with the National Fire Agency reporting that rescue missions more than doubled from 207 in 2019 to 454 in 2020, reaching 513 in 2023.
To address this, the agency has:
- Installed 3,420 Directional Signs: These yellow, diamond-shaped signs are placed every 100 meters, displaying coordinates in both WGS84 and TWD97 systems, trail names, and key locations in Chinese, along with distance markers.
- Added 1,381 Mobile Coverage Indicators: These signs identify areas with mobile network reception, verified by Taiwan’s three major telecom companies, enhancing communication capabilities in emergencies.
📈 Underlying Causes of Increased Accidents
The rise in hiking incidents is attributed to several factors:
- Inexperienced Hikers: Many new hikers underestimate trail difficulties, often inspired by social media, leading to inadequate preparation.
- Improper Equipment: Lack of essential gear such as GPS devices, appropriate clothing, and sufficient supplies increases vulnerability.
- Unregulated Hiking Groups: The absence of standardized qualifications for hiking guides and no enforced guide-to-hiker ratios contribute to safety risks.
🛡️ Government Initiatives for Enhanced Safety
The Taiwanese government has launched several initiatives to bolster mountain safety:
- Five-Year Safety Project: A NT$740 million (US$24.2 million) investment from 2023 to 2028 aims to upgrade rescue equipment and training.
- Mandatory Insurance and Equipment: Regulations now require hikers to have mountain trekking insurance and carry devices with GPS capabilities.
- Emergency Coordinator System: Hikers must designate an emergency contact familiar with their plans to facilitate prompt rescue if needed.
- Mobile Coverage Mapping: Telecom companies have collaborated with national parks to map and signpost areas with mobile reception, aiding in emergency communication.
🧰 Recommendations for Hikers
To ensure safety, hikers are advised to:
- Plan Thoroughly: Inform someone about your hiking route and expected return time.
- Equip Properly: Carry a smartphone with GPS, extra batteries, appropriate clothing, and sufficient food and water.
- Use Reliable Maps: Download offline maps from official sources like or Rudy Map.
- Stay Informed: Check weather forecasts and trail conditions before embarking.
📌 FAQs
Why has there been an increase in hiking accidents in Taiwan?
The easing of access restrictions and the popularity of hiking have led to more inexperienced individuals attempting challenging trails without proper preparation.
What measures has the government taken to improve safety?
The government has installed directional and mobile coverage signs, mandated insurance and equipment requirements, and invested in rescue infrastructure and training.
How can hikers prepare for a safe trip?
Hikers should plan their routes, inform someone of their plans, carry necessary equipment, use reliable maps, and stay updated on weather and trail conditions.
