TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taipei Metro (台北捷運) removed central poles and seats from trains Tuesday (Oct. 28) to expand accessibility for wheelchair and stroller users. The transit system announced Oct. 21 modifications to its "Family-Friendly Zone" in cars two through five. Changes include removing door screens and adding armrests to create additional standing space for mobility equipment.
Taipei Metro removed three-person seats between the third and fourth cars to improve peak-hour passenger flow. The modification provides expanded space for strollers during busy commuting periods throughout the system. Six optimized trains operate on the Bannan Line (板南線) during weekday morning rush hours from 8 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.
Taipei Metro has operated "Family-Friendly Zones" since 2015 across four major lines including Tamsui-Xinyi (淡水信義線) and Bannan (板南線). Pink stickers on platform doors identify these designated areas for families and mobility equipment users. The system urges passenger courtesy and recommends the Taipei Metro Go app for congestion monitoring.
Online users praised the policy changes, highlighting improved convenience for strollers, luggage, bicycles, and wheelchairs. Taipei Metro plans to continue collecting passenger feedback for further facility optimization. The transit system aims to provide a more accommodating commuting environment through ongoing improvements. ◼