No signal loss even in tunnels now — 90% of high-speed rail line offers stable mobile connectivity

▲ After testing on August 8 this year, over 90% of the line allows smooth calls. (Photo / Reporter Chen Rui-zhong)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Since the Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR) began operations in 2008, mobile phone signals were previously unavailable in tunnel sections and often interrupted on elevated sections. The government coordinated with telecom operators to improve the situation. To address passengers’ concerns, the Ministry of Transportation and Communications’ Taiwan High-Speed Rail Bureau has continuously carried out mobile communication improvement projects. As of August 8 this year, full-line tuning and testing have been completed, with over 90% of the line now offering stable and clear calls.

In July, the THSR Bureau conducted actual tests showing a significant improvement in mobile signal coverage across the entire line, with uninterrupted connectivity. Over 92% of call durations were normal, with only a small number experiencing unclear audio. The five mobile network operators have invested NT$4 billion over the past three years in these improvements, and will continue to enhance communication quality going forward.

The THSR Bureau noted that underground and tunnel sections are more challenging for improving mobile communication. The underground sections at Taoyuan and Taipei stations were opened in 2008 (Year 97 of the Republic of China) and 2011 (Year 100), respectively.

Additionally, the eight tunnel sections totaling 70 kilometers along the entire line have also been improved from north to south. By June 30, the improvement work on the Changhua No. 1 Tunnel – Baguashan Tunnel – Yuanlin No. 4 Tunnel had been completed. Currently, all tunnel sections have finished their upgrades. Following the testing and tuning on the 8th, there will be no signal loss in any tunnel, and call clarity will be excellent.

However, although the THSR has achieved its 2G mobile communication goals, passengers wishing to use 3G or 4G internet services on the train may need to wait a while longer.