Click：128
Division：運輸監理科
Date：113-06-15
Kaohsiung MRT Gangshan Lujhu Extension Line (Phase 1) - R24 (Exclusive) to RK1 Section Inspection Completed, Soon to Begin Operation
[Kaohsiung News] The Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) has announced the successful completion of a rigorous inspection of the Kaohsiung Mass Rapid Transit System's Gangshan Lujhu Extension Line (Phase 1), covering the stretch from R24 (excluding) to RK1 station, on the June 15th. After a full day of document review, on-site inspections, and testing, the conclusion was a "conditional approval." The required improvements before operation will be completed shortly and then submitted to the MOTC for final approval before commencing operations.
The MOTC assembled a review team consisting of 9 domestic experts and scholars, divided into three focus groups: civil engineering, electromechanical systems, and operations. They formulated and executed the inspection implementation plan. The inspection was led by Huang Yun-Kui, the Director-General of the Department of Railways, Highways, and Road Safety, MOTC, who served as the chief convener of the inspection. A critical part of the inspection involved a simulated emergency drill at MRT Gangshan Station. During this drill, the team tested the system’s response to a seismic event scenario that caused a train to inaccurately halt at the platform. The response team quickly mobilized, efficiently positioning themselves and adhering to standard operating procedures to manage the situation effectively. The drill was executed with a high degree of authenticity and was successfully concluded, demonstrating the system's preparedness for handling real-world emergencies.
Following an extensive day of inspections and testing, a total of 4 "pre-operation improvement items," 10 "general improvement items," and 12 "follow-up improvement suggestions" were identified by evaluators. Concerning the key findings of the "pre-operation improvement items," such as the lack of warning signs on the water meter box at Exit 1 and uneven flooring at Exit 2, the city government promptly instructed the Kaohsiung Mass Rapid Transit Bureau and Kaohsiung Rapid Transit Corporation (KRTC) to complete improvement measures swiftly and submit a report to the MOTC to obtain the operation permit.
The Gangshan Lujhu Extension Line of the Kaohsiung MRT is a major construction project for the city. Upon completion, the extension will link high-tech, optoelectronic, and semiconductor industries along the route, significantly promoting the overall development of northern Kaohsiung. This extension line will serve 350,000 residents in Gangshan, Lujhu, and Hunei Districts, providing them with more convenient transportation options and improved quality of life.
Kuo Tien-Kuei, Secretary-General of Kaohsiung City Government, noted that the initial phase of construction for the Gangshan Lujhu Extension Line began at Gangshan MRT Station in 2018 and concluded after six years. This expansion is the first new addition since the inception of the Kaohsiung MRT Red and Orange Lines in 2008 and the opening of Gangshan South Station (later renamed Kaohsiung Medical University Gangshan Hospital Station) in late 2012.
The comprehensive inspection covered numerous technical and operational areas, including station system electromechanics, tracks, signals, power, communications, operations control, and safety measures. The meticulous testing and verification process confirmed that all systems and facilities at the station adhered to stringent operational safety standards, culminating in a successful inspection outcome.
According to the Transportation Bureau of the Kaohsiung City Government, the Kaohsiung Mass Rapid Transit Bureau and KRTC will promptly address the identified deficiencies and, following the proper procedures, report to the MOTC for operation approval. Once operational, the total length of the city's MRT lines will reach 44.2 kilometers, with the service area expanded to 39 stations in total. Whether Kaohsiung residents are heading to Gangshan for its famous lamb dishes or Gangshan residents are traveling to downtown Kaohsiung for shopping, recreation, or education, this extension line will provide citizens with more convenient and comfortable transportation services.
