Simple Water Systems in Taiwan's Fuxing District Show Alarming E. coli Contamination

A startling 96 percent of simple water systems in Taiwan's Fuxing District have failed E. coli tests, with some samples showing contamination levels an astonishing 2,833 times the standard limit. This widespread contamination poses a severe threat to the health of residents who depend on these basic water sources for their daily needs.

The audit report for 2025 revealed that out of 51 simple water systems in the Fuxing District, only one system passed E. coli tests in the first half of the year, and just two passed in the latter half. The contamination is particularly severe in the raw water and supply ends, with non-compliance rates exceeding 90 percent. Some systems showed E. coli counts of 17,000 colony-forming units per 100 milliliters, far surpassing the standard of 6.

Officials attribute the high contamination rates to the remote locations of these systems, which make it difficult to install ultraviolet (UV) sterilization equipment due to power supply challenges. The Department of Indigenous Peoples is addressing the issue by upgrading aging infrastructure. This includes replacing old pipes and water tanks, switching from FRP tanks to concrete or stainless steel alternatives, and installing UV sterilization lamps to improve water quality. They are also working with Taiwan Power Company to establish reliable power sources for sterilization equipment in tribal areas.

Furthermore, the government has secured NT$33 million in subsidies to improve water facilities in three specific tribal areas by the end of 2026. Concurrently, the Water Corporation is extending a main water supply pipeline along Provincial Highway 7, with the goal of reaching Luofu within two years. This expansion is expected to provide official tap water to over half of Fuxing District residents, offering a more reliable and safer water source.