Danjiang Bridge Traffic Stretches 5 Kilometers; Large Crowds Expected Again on the 23rd

(CNA, Taipei, 17th) The Danjiang Bridge, which officially opened on May 12, boosted tourism in Tamsui on its first weekend. The Directorate General of Highways stated that traffic peaked at 3 PM today, with queues stretching up to 5 kilometers. A large number of travelers are still expected on the 23rd. This week marked the first weekend holiday since the Danjiang Bridge officially opened. Due to clear weather, large crowds flocked to the site for a "pilgrimage" yesterday and today, causing significant pedestrian and vehicle congestion. The Northern Region Maintenance Engineering Office of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications' Directorate General of Highways issued a press release stating that with people flocking to see the Danjiang Bridge for two consecutive days, Tamsui has become one of the hottest tourist spots in northern Taiwan. The Northern Region Maintenance Engineering Office noted that vehicles began pouring in from 10 AM today, and by 10:30 AM, the traffic jam exceeded 3 kilometers. The office, in collaboration with the New Taipei City Transportation Department, immediately initiated traffic diversion announcements. The Tamsui and Luzhou Precincts of the New Taipei City Police Department also stepped up traffic control at surrounding intersections. Although the congestion eased slightly, a continuous influx of vehicles led to a peak at 3 PM, with the traffic jam extending over 5 kilometers. The office predicts that the clear weather will likely continue next weekend, and the novelty-seeking trend will persist. They urge visitors to make more use of public transportation or to enter Tamsui via Provincial Highway 2 from Guandu or Zhuwei. The public is advised to check traffic conditions before heading out. The office also advised the public to listen to radio broadcasts for the latest road information and to pay attention to traffic control messages displayed on Changeable Message Signs (CMS). (Editor: Huang Ming-Hsi) 1150517