Taipei Public Works Department Criticized for Attacking Mayoral Candidate Over Hiking Route

Taipei's Department of Public Works issued a lengthy statement over the weekend, directly refuting comments made by Shen Po-yang, a candidate for Taipei mayor representing the Democratic Progressive Party. Shen had previously questioned the progress of the "Taipei Grand Traverse" hiking route under the current administration, citing a lack of development and inadequate transportation planning.

The department, in a move that drew criticism, labeled Shen an "outsider" and asserted that true mountain enthusiasts would oppose his views. This public rebuttal, released during a weekend holiday, led to accusations from political commentator Chou Hsuan and others that the department was functioning as an extension of Mayor Chiang Wan-an's campaign team.

Many hikers voiced their discontent online, sharing frustrations about the persistent issues with the "Taipei Grand Traverse," particularly concerning transportation access to trailheads like Fengguizui. They argued that the department's focus on refuting Shen was misplaced, and that their energy should be directed towards addressing long-standing logistical problems, such as infrequent and overcrowded bus services, which hinder the enjoyment and accessibility of the trails.

Shen Po-yang himself responded to the department's statement, expressing bewilderment at the characterization of his suggestions. He clarified that his comments were intended as constructive advice on improving trail accessibility and connectivity, not as a call to disrupt natural environments. He also pointed out that the department appeared to be misrepresenting his proposals, such as suggesting he wanted a specific bus route to circle every trailhead, which he denied making.

Further scrutiny came from other netizens who accused the Department of Public Works of fabricating Shen's positions. They claimed the department misrepresented Shen's remarks about connecting the Grand Traverse with the "Taipei Skyline" as a plan to build new trails, and his suggestion about improving bus frequency at Fengguizui as a demand for a specific bus to circle every entrance. These distortions, critics argue, serve to deflect from the department's own shortcomings in addressing the hikers' concerns.