Old Lanyang Bridge Historical Status Revoked; Cultural Sector Says Confrontation is Unavoidable

The Yilan County Cultural Affairs Bureau has reaffirmed its decision to revoke the historical building status of the old Lanyang Bridge, despite objections from cultural groups and the Ministry of Culture. The ministry had previously stated that the revocation procedure was incomplete and flawed. The county bureau, however, insists on the decision, citing public safety and adherence to regulations, particularly regarding flood control and potential water obstruction issues posed by the bridge's structure and density of its piers.

The old Lanyang Bridge, a combined railway and road bridge that has stood for over 90 years, is located east of the current Lanyang Bridge. It was designated a historical building by the county government over 20 years ago. The county's decision to revoke its status came last May, ostensibly to facilitate the reconstruction of the Lanyang Bridge.

Cultural groups, including the Yilan County Cultural Association, have launched a petition to save the bridge. They criticize the revocation process as hasty and lacking professional assessment, arguing it disregards cultural heritage protection mechanisms. Lin Zhengfang, a key figure in the rescue efforts, called the review unfair and stated that public opposition is inevitable, especially since the cultural bureau has not adequately addressed the issues raised by the Ministry of Culture.

The Lanyang Bridge reconstruction project, estimated to cost NT$3 billion and take about four years, is planned to begin construction this year. The project involves a "half-half construction" method to maintain two-way traffic. However, the ongoing dispute over the old bridge's historical status could introduce uncertainties and delays to the planned completion by the end of 2030.

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This is an unfair and unjust review. Faced with such a result, the public must make its voice heard. We do not rule out launching the next wave of rescue actions.