THSR major delay affects 180,000 passengers; refunds offered without fees

Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) experienced major operational disruptions yesterday due to a signaling system anomaly. Statistics show that approximately 180,000 passengers traveled yesterday, and almost all were affected. Passengers can receive refunds for delays or cancellations according to regulations, which can be processed within one year without any handling fees. Yesterday's delay was the most severe in recent years, with the last large-scale operational anomaly dating back to 2013. THSR explained in a press release that the failure was preliminarily identified as an anomaly in the power module of the 'Switch Control Unit' (SMC). In response to the delays, THSR provided snacks, bread, and water at all stations this morning to express their sincere apologies. According to the compensation plan announced by THSR, passengers can apply for refunds within one year from the date of travel without handling fees. If the train arrives 30 minutes or more but less than 60 minutes behind schedule, 50% of the fare will be refunded; if the delay is 60 minutes or more, the full fare will be refunded. Passengers on cancelled trains are eligible for a full refund, and those who interrupted their journey can receive a refund for the unused portion of the ticket. Passengers holding reserved seat tickets who switched to non-reserved seats can apply for a refund of the fare difference at any station ticket window within one year from the date of travel.