Taiwan High Speed Rail Signal Anomaly: All Trains Switched to Unreserved Seating; Refunds and Compensation Offered

Taipei, May 25 (CNA) - Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) announced that due to a signal anomaly in the Miaoli section this morning, it adjusted its operating schedule starting at 8:00 AM today. All original trains were canceled, and replaced by three unreserved-seating trains (excluding business class) per hour from Nangang Station (southbound) and Zuoying Station (northbound), stopping at every station. The departure times from the terminal stations are at the hour, 20 minutes past, and 40 minutes past. THSR stated that it discovered the signal anomaly during pre-operational preparations early this morning and is currently operating the section as a single-track, two-way line. THSR is continuing emergency repairs and will provide updates on the latest operational status. THSR expressed its sincere apologies to passengers whose travel was delayed today and announced that it would provide refunds and compensation. Passengers whose arrival at their destination is delayed by 30 minutes or more but less than 60 minutes will receive a 50% refund of the fare; those delayed by 60 minutes or more will receive a full refund. Passengers who purchased tickets for canceled trains can receive a full refund if the ticket is unused. Passengers holding reserved-seat tickets who take unreserved seats can apply for a refund of the fare difference at station ticket windows within one year from the date of travel.