Taiwan Railways Service Disrupted at Chishang Station After Derailment and Overhead Line Damage

Taiwan Railways (TRA) experienced consecutive accidents at Chishang Station today. At 11:15 AM, a freight train derailed during shunting operations and struck a utility pole. Later, a Puyuma express train severed the overhead power line while departing the station, causing a failure in the Chishang north section and suspending service between Fuli and Chishang. TRA stated that it has mobilized power units and contractors for emergency repairs. The stranded trains were cleared by 3:25 PM, and crews are working to restore power equipment, with completion estimated by 8:30 PM. TRA has established an emergency response team. Trains on the Hualien-Taitung line are terminating at Fuli and Guanshan stations, with bus shuttles operating between Guanshan and Fuli. So far, 25 bus trips have transported 967 passengers. Several trains have been canceled, and standing tickets are being offered on EMU3000 express trains between Xinzuoying and Shulin. Passengers affected by the cancellations can receive fee-free refunds at station ticket counters within one year from the travel date.