Taitung Councilor Calls for Flexible Use of Huoshui Lake, Currently Only 50m Open

Central News Agency, Taitung, May 27. Huoshui Lake in the suburbs of Taitung City is 1,100 meters long, yet only 50 meters are open for public swimming. County Councilor Chien Wei-kuo has urged the Taitung County Government to allow more flexible use and introduce a self-management system for swimmers. The county government stated it will study the proposal.

The artificial lake, located under the Zhonghua Bridge in Taitung City, is approximately 1,200 meters long, 100 meters wide, and 3 meters deep. However, frequent changes in management and usage have caused inconvenience to the public.

During a general interpellation at the Taitung County Council today, DPP Councilor Chien Wei-kuo argued that the lake is one of the few natural venues in Taiwan suitable for long-distance swimming training. Currently, only a 50-by-25-meter area is open, which he believes fails to maximize the facility's potential.

Chien noted that while the lake was partially opened last year with lifeguards, the current scope is too limited given its 1,100-meter length. He argued that it is unreasonable to restrict swimming to such a small area and suggested that the county government rethink safety responsibilities, shifting from total public sector liability to shared responsibility with users.

Chien proposed planning a 5-meter-wide, 1,100-meter-long fixed swimming lane to help lifeguards monitor swimmers. He suggested referencing management styles used at open water sites like Sizihwan, establishing a self-registration system where users scan QR codes via Taitung's 'TTPush' app to check in after assessing their own physical condition.

Li Su-chin, Director of the International Development and Planning Department, replied that integrating TTPush is technically feasible, noting that a similar check-in feature was implemented for the Liyushan Trail last year. She stated that her department could provide technical support if needed, but the overall usage policy must be decided by the relevant authorities.

Tourism Department Director Pu Min-cheng responded that the suggestions would be taken back for further study.