Landslide at Suhua Highway's Daqingshui Tunnel; Single-Lane Traffic Control in Effect

(CNA, Hualien, 26th) A rockfall and landslide occurred at the 159.4k mark of Suhua Highway's Route 9 at the Daqingshui Tunnel in the early hours today, damaging the roof of the steel-structured tunnel and affecting traffic. The Highway Bureau initially restricted entry, but dispatched emergency repair crews and machinery as the rockfall frequency subsided. Single-lane alternating traffic was opened at 2:20 AM.

Affected by a recent weather front, various regions face chances of local showers, with some areas expecting heavy rain. The Eastern Branch of the Highway Bureau pointed out that given the risk of night rainfall and potential disaster hazards, they do not rule out implementing preemptive road closures for the Hejen to Chongde section (154.7k to 165.7k) based on updated weather and road conditions to ensure traveler safety.

The Nan'ao Maintenance Section of the Eastern Branch stated that during the early phase of the reopening at the 159.4k mark, single-lane alternating traffic control will be employed. Travelers are asked to cooperate with the staff's instructions.

The Highway Bureau urges travelers that mountainous roads are prone to landslides and rockfalls during heavy rain, making road conditions difficult to manage. Avoid entering mountainous roads unless necessary. Please stay tuned to weather updates and risk alerts. Before traveling, utilize the Highway Bureau's smart real-time provincial highway info website (https://168.thb.gov.tw) or download the 'Happy Highway App' and listen to traffic broadcasts. (Editor: Huang Ming-hsi) 1150426