Nantou's Xinyi Township Launches 'Happiness Bus' for Easier Travel

Central News Agency (Nantou) - The 'Nantou Happiness GO' bus service in Xinyi Township began trial operations today. The service covers travel between any two points within Xinyi Township and between the township and downtown Shuili. It aims to provide convenient, on-demand transport for the elderly, those with limited mobility, and other residents for medical visits or daily errands. To improve public transport in remote areas, the Directorate General of Highways' Taichung Motor Vehicles Office and the Nantou County Government have collaborated to launch the trial. By utilizing a flexible, point-to-point reservation model, the service aims to overcome the difficulties traditional large buses face in mountainous terrain. The Nantou Motor Vehicles Station noted that elderly residents in remote areas often struggle with transport when their children are away, sometimes resorting to riding scooters or driving themselves. Through the 'Happiness GO' bus, managed by a county service center and integrated with senior citizen discount cards and student fares, the service aims to reduce financial burdens on families. Station Chief Chen Chia-wen stated that rides are free from May 28 through the end of July. The Taichung Motor Vehicles Office continues to assist the county in its goal to implement the service across all 13 townships and cities by the end of the year. According to the Xinyi Township Office, the bus operates Monday to Friday, 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Reservations must be made at least one working day in advance, and each bus requires at least two passengers to depart. The full fare is NT$25, calculated in 8km segments up to three segments.