TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan deployed 550 soldiers to Guangfu Township (光復鄉), Hualien County, on Tuesday (Sept. 30) as disaster relief efforts entered their seventh day following a barrier lake overflow at Matai'an Creek (馬太鞍溪). The massive military deployment demonstrates the severity of flooding conditions in Taiwan's eastern region, where environmental cleanup and infrastructure repairs continue. Military commanders coordinated the largest single-day troop deployment for the ongoing emergency response operations.
Soldiers from 13 military units, including the Guandu Command (關渡指揮部) and Taoyuan City Reserve Command (桃園後備旅), departed from Hsinchu, Taoyuan, Keelung, and Yilan counties. The troops arrived in the disaster zone via special train transport, prepared to conduct environmental cleanup, road repairs, and urban restoration operations. Military personnel will work alongside local residents and civilian volunteers in the comprehensive recovery effort.
The 6th Army Command (六軍團), Taiwan's regional military headquarters, coordinated the multi-unit deployment, demonstrating unprecedented cross-regional military support for civilian disaster relief operations. This collaborative effort underscores Taiwan's military dedication to homeland protection while maintaining close cooperation with civilian disaster relief volunteers. The coordinated response reflects Taiwan's integrated approach to emergency management during natural disasters.
The Hualien rescue mission demonstrates Taiwan's national unity during natural disaster emergencies, with military and civilian sectors coordinating comprehensive relief efforts. Military personnel and civilian volunteers have committed extensive time and resources to assist affected communities in rebuilding infrastructure and restoring normal operations. The collaborative response highlights Taiwan's disaster preparedness and social cohesion during crisis situations. ◼