Fire on vacant lot in Taichung burns 11 motorcycles; 2 billion NT dollar prime land becomes focus again

A fire erupted on a vacant lot across from the Zhongyou Department Store in Taichung, Taiwan, just before a typhoon made landfall. The blaze consumed 11 motorcycles and sent thick black smoke into the sky. Firefighters quickly controlled the fire, and no injuries were reported.

The 600-ping (approximately 2,000 square meters) lot is the former site of the "Oriental Paris" building, which was demolished after the 921 earthquake. The property has remained vacant for over 20 years due to complex ownership disputes, with its market value estimated at over 2 billion NT dollars.

The prime location, adjacent to the bustling Yizhong business district and across from the Zhongyou Department Store, also boasts proximity to Taichung University of Technology, China Medical University Hospital, and China Medical University. The plot is regular in shape, faces three roads, and offers convenient transportation. It was once valued at 2.3 million NT dollars per ping.

Local residents recall that many China Medical University teachers bought apartments in the building, only to have their dreams shattered when the earthquake destroyed it. Many became victims of loan risks, and their properties were auctioned off. Ownership of the site is gradually being consolidated, but the land remains undeveloped and fenced off. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the police and fire departments.