TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Minister of the Interior Lin Yu-chang said on Monday (April 15) that the Taroko National Park suffered severe damage in the Hualien earthquake on April 3, 2024, with initial estimates for restoration costs around NT$ 1 billion.
Lin stated that the central government immediately allocated NT$ 300 million to the Hualien County government for immediate use.
He pointed out that the cost for the national park, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of the Interior, is expected to exceed NT$ 1 billion. However, as aftershocks continue in the disaster area, a detailed assessment will be conducted once the situation stabilizes.
During his oral report, Lin also mentioned that the trails and facilities within Taroko National Park were severely damaged. Initial estimates suggest it will take 14 days to complete the survey of the more accessible areas. The severely affected areas will be initially surveyed for facility damage through aerial photography.
In the future, safety will be prioritized. A gradual, phased, and zoned reopening will be adopted depending on the frequency and impact of aftershocks.
