Survey on Heavy Motorcycle Entry into National Highways to be Conducted Once Every Two Years, Results to be Announced in 2024

Central News (Central News Reporter Yu Xiaohan, Taipei, July 14) The issue of whether heavy motorcycles can enter national highways has been a subject of ongoing debate. Today, the Ministry of Transportation and Highways confirmed that due to the recent lack of significant differences in public opinion polls on the matter, the frequency of such polls has been adjusted to once every two years. The results of the next poll are expected to be announced next year. In November 2011, the Legislative Yuan passed an amendment to the Road Traffic Safety Act, allowing heavy motorcycles to enter national highways under certain conditions. It was also proposed that National Highways 6, 8, and the section south of Xinhua on National Highway 3 be prioritized for trial operation. However, this has not yet been implemented, and large heavy machinery groups have occasionally held events to advocate for their right of way. To understand the public's intention regarding the entry of heavy motorcycles (550cc and above) into expressways, the Ministry of Transportation and Highways has conducted public opinion polls every year. However, the results have consistently shown that 6-7 out of 10 people oppose the entry of heavy motorcycles into national highways. Today, the Ministry of Transportation and Highways stated that due to the recent lack of significant differences in public opinion polls, the frequency of such polls has been reviewed and adjusted to once every two years. The next poll is expected to be conducted next year, and additional polls may be conducted if necessary. The Ministry of Transportation and Highways pointed out that a verification committee composed of representatives and experts from related units has been commissioned by the Chinese Taipei Transportation Society to conduct statistical analysis of indicators related to safety, order, and behavior. This analysis will serve as a reference for the progress of allowing heavy motorcycles (550cc and above) to enter expressways. This verification is conducted once every four years as a principle. (Editor: Li Hengshan) 1150714