Magistrate Wang Hui-Mei Inspects Dacheng Pumping Station Ahead of Typhoon Bavi

Typhoon Bavi is approaching Taiwan, and the Central Weather Bureau forecasts that Changhua County may experience localized heavy rainfall and short-duration intense downpours due to the typhoon and its outer circulation. To strengthen flood prevention and emergency response, Changhua County Magistrate Wang Hui-Mei conducted an on-site inspection of the Xiahaigian Pumping Station in Dacheng Township on the morning of the 10th, reviewing the operation of pumping units and disaster preparedness measures. She instructed all departments to continuously monitor typhoon movements, rainfall, and water levels, and to ensure all flood control measures are in place and drainage facilities are functioning properly. She also urged residents to prepare in advance to minimize damage from heavy rain and strong winds.

Magistrate Wang explained that the Xiahaigian area has long faced drainage issues due to severe siltation at the seaward outlet. Despite continuous pumping, discharged water struggles to flow into the open sea, leading to frequent flooding. To address this, the county government urgently excavated a new drainage channel to provide a clear outlet for pumped water. Additionally, with assistance from a legislator, the county secured a central government subsidy of NT$120 million to implement an isolation waterway project, which will further improve the overall drainage system. The project is currently in the design phase and will proceed to construction after review procedures are completed.

Wang emphasized that because the construction area is adjacent to a critical habitat for the endangered Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin (commonly known as the white dolphin), the isolation waterway design aims to enhance drainage efficiency while protecting marine ecology and minimizing impacts on dolphin populations. Once completed, the pumped water will be directly discharged into waterways via the isolated channel, unaffected by offshore siltation, significantly improving flood discharge capacity and reducing flooding during heavy rains.

The magistrate urged residents to take proactive typhoon preparedness measures, including cleaning drainage ditches around homes, securing loose outdoor items vulnerable to strong winds, and preparing emergency supplies.

The Water Resources Division stated that all disaster prevention and rescue units have completed typhoon preparedness. This includes reinforcing pumping equipment, flood control facilities, and rescue machinery. Authorities are closely monitoring flood-prone areas, potential landslide zones, and low-lying coastal regions, ready to respond at any moment. Residents in low-lying areas are advised to clean drainage ditches and storm drains, and to install sandbags or waterproof gates when necessary to reduce the risk of flooding.

Large coastal pumping stations are maintained and operated 24/7 by professional contractors, with mobile personnel stationed at gate-type pumping stations to respond immediately in emergencies. All pumping units have completed trial operations. In addition, mobile pumps are pre-deployed at flood hotspots for rapid response. Emergency repair contractors are on standby and can be mobilized immediately to secure flood defense breaches during disasters, ensuring public safety.

With the approaching typhoon, the public is advised to monitor weather forecasts, avoid activities near rivers, coastlines, mountain streams, and low-lying areas, and to drive cautiously with reduced speed. The county government will continue to closely monitor weather and hydrological conditions, dynamically adjusting response measures based on rainfall developments. If necessary, the emergency operations center will be elevated to a higher activation level to ensure comprehensive flood prevention and public safety.