The Daokeng Mountain area, a favorite among central Taiwan hikers, has been severely affected by persistent heavy rainfall. Landslides have caused large amounts of soil and rocks to collapse along Trails No. 1 and No. 3. In addition, the structure of the wooden boardwalks is partially suspended in mid-air, creating dangerous conditions. The Taichung City Tourism and Travel Bureau stated that Mayor Lu Shieu-huan has ordered the temporary closure of Trails No. 1 and No. 3, with immediate repairs to follow. Safety warning tapes have been installed around hazardous sections to prevent accidents.
Lin Hsiao-chi, Director of the Tourism and Travel Bureau, explained that Trails No. 1 to No. 5 in Daokeng are mostly located within forest compartments and protected woodland areas. The trails feature boardwalks made of Acacia wood, hand-built stone steps, and untouched forest paths, all of which are vulnerable to weather-related damage. Due to the heavy rains in May and June, landslides occurred on Trails No. 1 and No. 3. After a joint inspection with the Forestry Bureau, it was decided that Trails No. 1 and No. 3 will be temporarily closed for emergency repairs.
Lin Hsiao-chi noted that approximately NT$20 million in disaster preparedness funds from the municipal government have been secured to immediately carry out reconstruction and rerouting of the damaged trails. To speed up the repair process, the city government will implement a phased closure approach for the trails, minimizing disruption to hikers. Safety warning tapes have also been placed around hazardous areas to alert visitors.
Regarding the trail closure schedule: Trail No. 1, where partial sections have been hollowed out and suffered soil and rock slippage due to rain, is expected to be fully repaired by September 30, 2019 (108 year refers to Taiwan’s fiscal year); Trail No. 3, which experienced severe slope collapses, is expected to be completed by the end of June 2020 (109 year); Trails No. 2, 4, 5, 6, and 10 will undergo repairs in phases. Hikers are advised to cooperate with the construction schedule and consider alternative well-maintained trails.