Taiwan mountain road reopens after typhoon damage; water supply at hut remains unstable

The East Line of the Dalu Forest Road, a vital access route to Mount Dabajianshan in Taiwan, has reopened after extensive repairs. Typhoon Bavi caused significant damage, including landslides, fallen trees, and roadbed erosion, necessitating a major recovery effort by the Shei-Pa National Park Headquarters.

The reopening, effective immediately, restores access to the main and secondary routes leading to the Mount Dabajianshan trailhead. However, the water supply system at the Jiujiu Mountain Hut, a common resting point for hikers, is not yet fully stable. Initial assessments of the water system's damage were underestimated, with approximately one kilometer of the pipeline filled with sand and gravel. Repair crews worked for days to clear the debris and reconnect the pipes, but intermittent supply issues persist.

Authorities are urging hikers staying at the Jiujiu Mountain Hut to bring sufficient drinking and backup water to avoid disrupting their plans. While the forest road is passable, officials caution that some sections still show signs of erosion. Visitors should remain vigilant, especially during rainfall, as isolated rockfalls and slope instability are still possible. The focus of the repair work was to restore passage, and ongoing efforts continue to stabilize the water system.

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The water supply system is still unstable, so hikers staying at the mountain hut must bring enough drinking water and backup water.