Yangmingshan Park Urges Ecological Protection Amid Surge in Disruptive Night Visitors to Qingtiangang

(CNA, Taipei, May 20, by reporter Kao Hua-chien) The Yangmingshan National Park Headquarters stated that due to a recent incident involving a couple at Qingtiangang, the number of nighttime visitors to the area has significantly increased. Some of these visitors are playing music, using high-powered flashlights, and smoking in violation of regulations, which has impacted the environment, disturbed animal habitats, and caused the lawn to be trampled to the point of withering and baring the soil. The park calls on the public to jointly protect the natural ecosystem. Following a couple's recent disorderly conduct at Qingtiangang in Yangmingshan National Park, the park headquarters issued a press release today stating that the primary purpose of real-time imaging equipment at scenic spots like Qingtiangang is for ecological conservation, scientific research, safety management, and allowing visitors to check weather conditions before their trip. The headquarters explained that due to the recent incident, some members of the public have made excessive and improper use of the live stream function, leading to an increase in visitors, especially at night. Some visitors have gathered at night playing music, shining strong flashlights indiscriminately, and even smoking illegally. These improper behaviors have caused significant environmental impacts, such as the lawn being trampled until it withered and exposed the ground, and light pollution from flashlights disturbing the nocturnal rest of wildlife and the natural ecology. The headquarters also pointed out that the late-night influx of vehicle traffic and noise has severely disturbed residents along Lane 101, Jingshan Road, impacting their sleep quality. The administration stressed that the beautiful environment and natural resources of the national park require public cherishing. To maintain ecological balance and tranquility, patrols and public awareness efforts have been increased. At night, the Fourth Special Police Corps of the Seventh Special Police Corps, National Police Agency, Ministry of the Interior, has stepped up patrols and admonishments. Violations of the National Park Act, such as smoking, littering, and using sound-emitting devices, will be prosecuted according to the law. Regarding whether any penalties have been issued, the headquarters responded that they are currently investigating the personal information of the violators and will proceed to the penalty phase once the facts are verified. The headquarters urges the public visiting Qingtiangang at night to keep their voices low, turn off unnecessary strong light sources, and take their trash with them. While getting close to nature, please also return the necessary habitat space to wildlife, respect the residential rights of local residents, and jointly protect the precious natural resources, night sky, and tranquility. (Editor: Chang Jo-yao) 1150520