TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Taiwan Railway Corporation (TRC) is assessing the feasibility of installing platform screen doors at its rail stations, beginning with a pilot program at Kaohsiung Station.
Variations in train models mean that platform doors need to be compatible with all types. The company said that base designs for these doors are currently underway.
The company has set a completion timeline for the initiative. It plans to finish outsourcing engineering work by June 2024 and expects to complete the platform door pilot program by December 2024. The feasibility of implementing the system at other stations will then be assessed based on the program's performance.
To keep passengers safe from falling onto the tracks and being hit by oncoming trains, TRC has marked a yellow warning line one meter from the platform's edge. The major stations also have warning lights about 50 centimeters from the platform's edge to remind passengers of approaching trains, in addition to amplified announcements.
Additionally, staff, security personnel, or volunteers would be deployed to crowded platforms to remind passengers to keep away from the edge. During peak times, railway police would be called in to maintain platform order and safety. Support from operation staff would be increased during long holidays.
The railway company also uses multimedia systems on trains and platforms as well as online video platforms to reinforce the importance of observing safety precautions while waiting for a train.