Taipei mayor orders removal of controversial 'dog cage' smoking areas

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an has ordered the immediate dismantling of controversial "grille-style" smoking areas in the Gongguan commercial district following public outcry. The structures were widely criticized and likened to "dog cages," prompting swift action from the city government.

The Taipei Department of Health confirmed on August 27 that all grille-style smoking areas have been removed. Mayor Chiang has instructed Vice Mayor Li Tai-hsing to prioritize the establishment of negative-pressure and green-hedge style smoking areas. The health department is tasked with developing unified design and setting standards for these facilities, along with a standardized review mechanism.

Currently, Taipei has 267 designated smoking areas. This includes 12 operational negative-pressure smoking areas and 190 outdoor open-air smoking areas. An additional four negative-pressure smoking areas are slated for completion by the end of this year, with a further 24 planned for 2027. This expansion aims to further separate smokers and non-smokers, fostering a more comfortable public environment.

The city is also exploring the use of "AI detection smoking deterrence equipment." The health department is testing AI image recognition technology to automatically detect illegal smoking in outdoor non-smoking areas. Upon detection, the system would trigger an automated voice warning. This pilot program, planned for Ximending and Zhongshan North Road commercial districts, involves 20 surveillance cameras and an estimated budget of NT$4 million for AI training, data storage, equipment purchase, installation, and maintenance.