Aging Rubber Trees on Taiwan Highway to Be Removed for Safety

A significant number of aging Indian rubber trees lining Provincial Highway No. 1 in Hukou, Hsinchu County, are slated for removal due to safety concerns. A total of 387 such trees have been identified along this stretch of road, with authorities planning to address the issue systematically.

The North District Maintenance Office of the Directorate General of Highways has determined that some of these trees are no longer healthy and their growth is restricted, making routine pruning and maintenance insufficient to mitigate potential risks. This assessment has led to the decision to remove a portion of the trees.

This year, the plan is to remove 165 of the 387 Indian rubber trees. This action is based on evaluations conducted by experts who have assessed the trees' condition and the limitations imposed by their growing environment. The goal is to enhance public safety by removing trees that could pose a hazard.

The removal of these trees is part of a broader effort to manage roadside vegetation and ensure the safety of motorists and pedestrians. The project highlights the ongoing challenges of maintaining urban and suburban landscapes while balancing ecological considerations with public safety requirements.