High-speed rail extension to Yilan approved: Luodong mayoral candidates Huang Shih-chao and Chen Hong-hsi both support
2026/07/28 12:00 Reporter Chiang Chih-hsiung／Yilan Report
The high-speed rail extension to Yilan plan has been finalized, sparking热议. Luodong mayoral candidates Huang Shih-chao and Chen Hong-hsi both expressed support for the high-speed rail today (28th), believing that the high-speed rail is more forward-looking than the conventional railway and represents a crucial opportunity for Yilan's century-long development.
Luodong is Yilan County's commercial hub. In the upcoming mayoral election, the Democratic Progressive Party has nominated former Deputy County Magistrate Huang Shih-chao, while the Kuomintang has fielded County Councilor Chen Hong-hsi, setting up a blue-green showdown. On the high-speed rail issue, both sides are aligned in supporting the construction of high-speed rail in Yilan.
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Huang Shih-chao said that after the Yilan high-speed rail opens, it can alleviate congestion on the Hsuehshan Tunnel. With more convenient external transportation, it will create incentives for high-tech industries to invest in Yilan. Young and middle-aged people working in Taipei and New Taipei City can commute to Yilan by high-speed rail, which can slow down Yilan's population outflow. Although the high-speed rail Yilan station will be located in Yilan City, it is not far from Luodong. With proper planning and feeder services, it will also be a boon for Luodong's development.
Chen Hong-hsi stated that the high-speed rail project is a century-defining transportation infrastructure for Yilan, welcomed and supported by most local residents. Compared to the conventional railway, the high-speed rail is more forward-looking. However, to facilitate transfers and connections for passengers in Luodong and other towns, the elevation of the Yilan to Luodong railway must be prioritized. He also called on the central government, saying that the project has been approved by the Executive Yuan and should be implemented, not turned into a hollow promise.
