Taipei officials face backlash over 'water caltrop' in storm drains after floods

Taipei City officials are under fire after images emerged of water caltrop plants flourishing in storm drains in the Neihu and Nangang districts, areas that experienced severe flooding due to typhoon rains. The unusual sight has sparked public doubt about the city's storm drain cleaning efficiency.

“

Water caltrop plants were washed downstream from upstream and do not affect flood levels.

Taipei City Research, Development and Evaluation Commission Chairman Yin Wei attempted to quell the controversy by stating that plant experts determined the water caltrop was washed downstream from upstream and does not impact flood levels. He also suggested that the specific drain where the plants were found is on private property.

However, political commentator Chou Xuan sharply criticized Yin's explanation, likening it to a "great shift of cosmic power." Chou questioned whether this meant Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an's administration was not responsible for cleaning the drains, or if the drains were considered private property unrelated to the city government. Chou challenged Yin and Chiang to repeat their explanation directly to the residents of Neihu, who suffered the brunt of the flooding.

“

Water caltrop plants were washed downstream from upstream, so is it not Chiang Wan-an's drains that were not cleaned? Are the drains private land and unrelated to the Taipei City Government?

Chou urged Yin and Chiang to demonstrate their courage by addressing the Neihu residents directly with their explanation. The controversy highlights public scrutiny of the city's infrastructure maintenance and the administration's response to urban flooding issues.

“

I welcome Yin Wei or Chiang Wan-an to say this again to the residents of Neihu.