Eastern Taiwan's transportation network is witnessing a historic breakthrough. The Executive Yuan formally approved the 'HSR Extension to Yilan' project during its cabinet meeting today (23rd). Simultaneously, the Ministry of Transportation and Communications released a policy white paper titled 'Building a 90-Minute Island-Wide Efficient Rail Network,' announcing that this national-level rail infrastructure project, with a total estimated cost of NT$352.175 billion, has officially entered the implementation phase. Following the completion of comprehensive planning procedures, the Executive Yuan held a post-meeting press conference to disclose detailed information, stating that construction could begin as early as 2029, with the goal of commencing operations by the end of 2036. Upon completion, the travel time between Taipei's Nangang and Yilan will be drastically reduced to just over 20 minutes.

How will the HSR Yilan line route be designed? How much time will it save for drivers?

The HSR extension to Yilan project successfully passed the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) review by the Ministry of Environment in August 2025, led by the Railway Bureau of the Ministry of Transportation. The overall route extends eastward from Taipei's Nangang Station. To minimize ecological impact, the route has been specifically designed to bypass the Feitsui Reservoir watershed. It will sequentially pass through Xizhi, Pingxi, Shuangxi, and Gongliao districts in New Taipei City, then enter Toucheng and Jiaoxi townships in Yilan County, finally arriving in Yilan City. The total length is approximately 60.6 kilometers.

Once operational, the new line will fundamentally overcome the limitations of current Taiwan Railways (TRA) and highway transport, which are often disrupted by terrain and weather conditions. It will significantly shorten the spatial distance between northern and eastern Taiwan, offering the public a faster and more reliable transportation option.

Where will the stations be located? How will transfer functions and facilities be planned?

Addressing the most pressing local concern—the station location—the HSR Yilan Station has been confirmed to be situated approximately 350 meters south of the Yilan County Government Center. To ensure seamless connectivity, the station will be co-constructed in parallel with the TRA's ongoing 'Elevated Railway Project from Yilan to Luodong,' allowing passengers to transfer directly to access southern and northern Yilan townships or continue deeper into the Hualien-Taitung region.

For vehicle maintenance and operations, the planning team has designated a daily inspection and maintenance base on the northern side of the Lanyang River to uphold the highest safety standards for train operations.

Taiwan's first ocean-view HSR station! What other development highlights are included in the special zone?

Beyond the rail infrastructure, the Railway Bureau has commissioned Yilan County Government to develop the 'Yilan HSR Special Zone Urban Plan,' allocating a substantial NT$97.17 million in funding to complete the overall planning draft. The special zone covers a vast area of 420 hectares, bounded by Xianmin Boulevard to the north, Lanyang River embankment to the south, National Highway No. 5 to the east, and Zhongshan Road to the west.

At its core, the HSR station exclusive zone spans approximately 40 hectares. The station platforms will be built on three elevated levels, standing about 15 meters high. The design team has specifically reserved a landscape axis toward Guishan Island, making Yilan Station the only HSR station in Taiwan from which ocean views can be enjoyed. Additionally, a 1.5-hectare site has been designated for social housing, with plans to construct at least 1,000 units. This aims to create a new-generation HSR gateway that integrates tourism, transportation, and housing equity.

Illustration of the HSR Extension to Yilan project route. (Image/ Railway Bureau, MOTC)

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  • Source: PR Times
  • Category: News