Taiwan’s first-ever light rail line debuts in Kaohsiung — 20 free rides available daily

▲ Kaohsiung Light Rail begins trial operations on the 16th. (Photo / Reporter Lai Wen-hsuan, same below)

Reporter Lai Wen-hsuan / Kaohsiung

The much-anticipated moment has arrived.Taiwan’s first light rail line launches in Kaohsiung, with the first train departing at 9 AM on the 16th.The green-and-white vehicles set against green lawns create an almost overseas feel. Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chu, along with light rail staff, pressed the launch button. As the train slowly pulled into the platform, it marked the official arrival of the light rail era in Kaohsiung. Starting the 16th during the trial run,20 trains will be available daily, with 150 seats per trip for passengers.Come and enjoy this brand-new riding experience.

▲ Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chu leads council members on the inaugural light rail ride.

The trial operation of the Kaohsiung Light Rail has had its ups and downs but finally debuted on the 16th. To let the public experience and adapt to the service, early rides are also being offered. During the trial period,those wishing to try the light rail can make reservations online or by phone.On-site station staff also explained that since light rail stations do not have air conditioning like MRT stations, to avoid long queues, a reservation system is in place. Walk-in passengers may be accommodated as space allows. Currently, except forweekends when reservations are fully booked,all other time slots are open to the public.

For more photos from the Kaohsiung Light Rail launch day, please visit ＞＞＞＞Taiwan’s first light rail line in Kaohsiung is now running.

▲ Two light rail trains are on-site — one for passenger service and another for boarding and photo opportunities.

The light rail experience is currently available fromC1 Li-Zi-Nei Station to C4 Kai-Xuan Zhong-Hua Station and back, with each one-way trip taking about 15 to 20 minutes.No stops are allowed en route.Trains run every 30 minutes from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily, for a total of 20 trips.During the trial period, a light rail train will also be available on-site for passengers to board and take photos.

▲ Doors open and close via buttons operated by passengers.

The Kaohsiung Light Rail features open platforms.Passengers press buttons to open doors themselves. Both the platform and train cars are equipped with card readers for self-service fare payment.During the initial phase, station staff will remind passengers of riding rules. The Kaohsiung Mass Rapid Transit Bureau also reminds everyone to carry an EasyCard. While rides are free during the trial and swiping won’t deduct fees, once full service begins,those caught without a valid swipe may face a fine 50 times the fare.Don’t risk it. Eating and drinking are prohibited inside the train cars,just like on the MRT. Designated pedestrian pathways are set up around the platforms, and crossing the grassy areas on the platform is also not allowed.

▲Swipe your card when boarding and alighting; card readers are installed on both the platform and inside the carriages.

As the light rail has priority right of way, during its operation between C1 and C4 stations, it mainly passes through three intersections: the intersection of Kaisyuan and Banqiao Roads, the intersection of Kaisyuan and Zhongshan Roads, and the intersection of Kaisyuan and Zhenxing Roads. The Kaohsiung Rapid Transit Corporation also reminds road users to pay attention to traffic signs and markings in these areas for safety.

▲The light rail officially began trial operations on the 16th, drawing long queues of eager passengers.

In addition, to promote the use of the EasyCard for travel, the Kaohsiung Rapid Transit Corporation has launched an event. From October 16, 2015 (104 year 10 month 16 day) to January 15, 2016 (105 year 1 month 15 day),passengers who swipe their EasyCards will have the chance to win big prizes.The top prize even includes a trip to Japan for you!

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