Taipei calls China's Taiwan Strait traffic control order 'ridiculous' amid typhoon

Taiwan has strongly criticized China's imposition of traffic control measures in the Taiwan Strait during the approach of Typhoon Dolphin, labeling the order as 'ridiculous.' The Central Weather Administration in Taiwan issued a statement on Friday, August 7, expressing its disagreement with Beijing's directive.

Typhoon Dolphin is anticipated to make landfall on China's east coast late on August 7 or early on August 8. Taiwan's authorities view China's decision to implement traffic controls in the strait as an unwarranted and excessive measure, particularly given the typhoon's projected trajectory, which is expected to impact the mainland coast more directly.

The statement from Taipei suggests that such an order is unnecessary and potentially disruptive. Taiwan maintains that its own meteorological agencies are capable of monitoring and issuing relevant advisories for maritime traffic within its areas of responsibility. The move by China is seen by some as an attempt to assert control over the busy waterway, even under the guise of weather-related safety precautions.