Pingtung County Lowers Over 800 Manhole Covers, Integrates Design in New Roads

(CNA reporter Li Hui-ting, Pingtung County, July 13) The Pingtung County Government has advanced its manhole cover lowering program across county and township roads, completing over 800 improvement projects in the past three years. This initiative has effectively reduced road height differences, enhancing driving stability and safety for all road users.

According to a press release issued today by the Pingtung County Government, public infrastructure works—such as water supply, telecommunications, and sewage systems—have historically required frequent pipeline installation and maintenance on roads. Over time, some manhole covers have developed height discrepancies with the road surface, compromising road smoothness. These uneven surfaces increase the risk of vehicles swerving to avoid protruding covers, potentially leading to collisions or motorcycle falls. The danger is amplified during rainy weather when slippery conditions heighten accident risks.

The Department of Public Works explained that the county has been progressively implementing manhole cover lowering on existing county and township roads. Statistics show 230 locations were completed in 2023 (Minguo Year 112), 345 in 2024 (Minguo Year 113), and 227 in 2025 (Minguo Year 114). These improvements have not only enhanced road flatness but also significantly reduced noise generated when vehicles pass over manhole covers.

With steady progress in tourism development and the construction of the Pingtung Science Park, the county government has integrated the road-smoothing concept into the design of new roads. Recent projects such as the completed Ping 2-1 Line and Ping 11 Line widening, as well as six new roads currently under construction around the Pingtung Science Park, have fully adopted manhole cover lowering or flush-mounting techniques. As a result, manhole covers on vehicle lanes are nearly invisible on these new roads, greatly improving surface smoothness and driving quality.

The county government emphasized that while manhole covers must balance road flatness with underground pipeline maintenance needs, not all covers are suitable for lowering. Through on-site surveys and inventory assessments, the team prioritizes covers with low usage frequency or those not requiring regular maintenance. For utility facilities needing periodic access, necessary opening functionality is preserved to balance road quality with long-term management requirements. The government will continue improving road safety and creating a more comfortable environment for all road users. (Edited by Chen Jen-hua) 1150713