TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Minister of Transportation and Communications Chen Shih-kai (陳世凱) on Tuesday (Jan. 14) called for a pragmatic discussion on Taiwan Railway Corporation (TRA, 台鐵) fares, which have remained unchanged for 30 years. Chen emphasized the importance of effective communication with the public as the railway company considers fare adjustments.
The Taiwan Railway Corporation plans to hold a board meeting on Feb. 5 to discuss the proposed fare increase. The company revealed at a Monday press conference that it intends to propose a fare scheme with a return rate of less than 3% to minimize the impact on the public.
Chen expressed support for any fare proposal that aligns with Legislative Yuan (立法院) regulations and gains board approval within a reasonable range. Currently, the fare calculation follows a formula passed by the Legislative Yuan, with a return rate of 3% to 5%, yet fares have not been adjusted in three decades.
As the board meeting approaches, stakeholders and the public will closely watch the outcomes and potential fare changes. The discussion surrounding the fare adjustments will likely continue to evolve, reflecting broader economic and social considerations.