TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Taiwan High Speed Rail Corporation (THSRC, 台灣高鐵公司) launched an investigation Monday (April 14) evening after a northbound train failed to open its doors at a busy commuter station, stranding passengers inside. Officials confirmed the driver of train No. 204 has been suspended pending the outcome of the inquiry into the incident at Banqiao Station (板橋站).
Taiwan's transportation regulatory agency, the Railway Bureau under the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (交通部鐵道局), has initiated its own investigation running parallel to the company's internal inquiry. THSRC officials acknowledged the 8:26 a.m. incident as human error, revealing that the train operator had admitted to forgetting to send the signal that would have allowed the conductor to open the doors for disembarking passengers.
In a statement, THSRC representatives said they are examining all communications between train personnel to pinpoint exactly what went wrong in the door operation sequence. The company has pledged to expedite its internal investigation and develop new protocols to ensure such incidents don't recur, addressing growing public concern about operational safety on Taiwan's high-speed rail system.
The door malfunction disrupted travel plans for more than 150 commuters during the Monday morning rush hour. Responding to passenger complaints, THSRC announced a compensation package later that day that includes a 50% ticket refund for travelers who had intended to exit at Banqiao (板橋站). Also, all passengers affected by the incident will receive a complimentary gift as part of the company's formal apology. ★