Baishatun Mazu Pilgrimage Arrives in Changhua; Minister Chen Shih-kai Inspects Traffic and Thanks Weather Administration

(CNA reporter Wu Che-hao, Changhua, 14th) The Baishatun Mazu palanquin entered Changhua City today. Minister of Transportation Chen Shih-kai made a special trip to inspect traffic management and thank the personnel of the Central Weather Administration. Chen said that the Weather Administration staff carried mobile weather instruments to follow the procession, allowing the public to understand the weather conditions and temperature during the pilgrimage.

The Mazu pilgrimage from Gongtian Temple in Baishatun, Tongxiao, Miaoli, to Chaotian Temple in Beigang, proceeded on foot. The Mazu palanquin entered Changhua City from Wuri District, Taichung City, at noon. Chen first distributed 'Yong' (Brave) character train tickets made by the Ministry of Transportation and peace-blessing stickers at Guosheng Elementary School in Changhua City. He also carried the Weather Administration's mobile weather instrument and went to the factory where the Baishatun Mazu was resting at noon, joining the 'xiangdengjiao' (incense-following pilgrims) to follow Mazu.

In a media interview, Chen said that to cope with the large crowds of the Baishatun Mazu pilgrimage, Taiwan Railways and other units have planned transportation and evacuation plans. Personnel from the Central Weather Administration also carried mobile weather instruments to transmit the temperature and humidity along the pilgrimage route, allowing the public to understand the weather conditions and temperature during the event.

Chen pointed out that the Ministry of Transportation also prepared 'Yong' character train tickets and peace-blessing stickers for the 'xiangdengjiao'. Although he had wanted to participate in the Baishatun Mazu pilgrimage before, he couldn't in previous years because his children were young. This time, he was happy and excited to take the opportunity to walk a short distance with the Baishatun Mazu.

During the break before the afternoon departure, Chen went to the factory where the Baishatun Mazu was resting to pray to Mazu for a smooth pilgrimage. After the Baishatun Mazu's departure in the afternoon, the procession continued south along Provincial Highway 1 (Zhongshan Road). Although it passed by the Changhua County Council and the Changhua County Government, it did not stop.

However, due to the large number of accompanying 'xiangdengjiao' and Zhongshan Road being a major thoroughfare in Changhua City, the Changhua County Police Department dispatched many officers to direct traffic, guiding private cars and motorcycles to alternative routes to avoid traffic jams. (Editor: Li Shu-hua) 1150414

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