This year, there have been 40 mountain-related incidents in Yushan National Park, with cliff falls being the most common. With the opening of mountain areas and amendments to the State Compensation Act, the state has reduced or exempted liability for compensation. The public must adopt a mindset of self-managed risk to ensure their own safety.
Zhong Mingshan, director of Yushan National Park Headquarters, stated that in line with the Executive Yuan’s “Year One of Mountain Opening” policy and the amendments to the State Compensation Act related to rescue and compensation, the park has not only improved mountaineering services and simplified application procedures but also launched a 3D map platform for Yushan, incorporating virtual reality features. This enables hikers to understand routes and geological features, while the general public can also explore Yushan online and view 17 recreational sites within the park.
Zhong pointed out that opening up the mountains is great news for the hiking community, but previously restricted routes were often more challenging and hazardous. Therefore, when choosing routes, hikers should prioritize safety, fully assess their physical fitness, health, and relevant mountaineering skills, prepare well-equipped gear, and thoroughly understand route information.
On the 3rd, the Legislative Yuan passed an amendment to parts of the State Compensation Act. For naturally occurring public assets such as open mountains and water bodies—or their facilities—if appropriate warnings or signs are in place, the state will not bear or will reduce liability for damages.
Additionally, during the snow season, Yushan National Park Headquarters balances mountaineering safety and ecological protection by prioritizing service over regulation. When snow accumulation at Pyasan Lodge reaches 5 cm or the snowline descends to the White Wood Forest, “Enhanced Snow Season Services” will be implemented. Those lacking experience or proper gear are strongly advised not to attempt climbing.