TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC, 交通部) plans to add 80 kilometers of sidewalks in 2025, widening them to 150 centimeters to enhance pedestrian safety. This initiative comes as Taiwan faces challenges in sidewalk development due to late-stage urban planning and existing road constraints. Liu Tsai-wei (柳采葳), a Taipei City councilor, highlighted frequent issues such as vendors and scooters occupying sidewalks.
Lin Chih-hsueh (林志學), deputy director of the Taiwan Traffic Safety Association (台灣交通安全協會), emphasized that simply increasing sidewalk space might not suffice. He noted the importance of ensuring adequate visibility at crossing points to reduce accidents effectively. Director Chu Hsuan-tung (竺宣同) of the New Construction Office (臺北市政府新建工程處) acknowledged the complexities of sidewalk widening due to the relocation of underground utilities.
The government has implemented measures like installing barriers on Shida Rd. (師大路) to prevent scooter parking and vendor encroachment, ensuring a safer pedestrian environment. In 2024, pedestrian traffic accident fatalities fell to 366, a 3.7% decrease from the previous year, reaching a 16-year low. However, authorities stress that pedestrian safety relies on drivers and pedestrians being vigilant and adhering to regulations. As Taiwan continues to tackle these infrastructure challenges, the success of these initiatives will depend on comprehensive planning and public cooperation.
