MIAOLI (TVBS News) — Residents of Miaoli County, located in central Taiwan, are protesting the government's decision to add steel frames to the historic Longteng Bridge site.
The Longteng Bridge stands today as a remnant of the Yutenping Bridge, which was constructed in 1906 during Taiwan's period of Japanese occupation. As a popular tourist attraction, concerns about structural deterioration have prompted the local government to reinforce the bridge with steel frames.
Despite these efforts, locals have expressed their discontent, stating that adding steel frames compromises the site's visual integrity. Criticisms have included the argument that the reinforcement stands out conspicuously, detracting from the historical imagery of the bridge.
As tensions rise, community members continue to demand the preservation of the Longteng Bridge's heritage, sparking a heated debate over the future of this culturally significant landmark.
"The materials and structures used must be similar or identical to those used in the past," local resident Yang Te-yuan argued.
Miaoli County's Culture and Tourism Bureau responded that the frames are put in place to ensure public safety, adding that it could also prolong the life of the historic site.
