Taiwan Port Authority Responds to Environmental Concerns Over White Dolphin Habitat

The Taiwan Port Authority has responded to concerns raised by environmental groups regarding potential impacts on the Taiwan white dolphin habitat from land reclamation and construction waste disposal at the Taichung Port.

In a statement, the authority assured that all relevant engineering projects are conducted in accordance with the approvals and legal frameworks established by the competent authorities. They emphasized ongoing efforts to manage soil, protect construction sites, monitor water quality, and observe white dolphins to minimize the project's ecological impact while supporting port development.

The authority clarified that the southern reclamation areas (III and IV) are situated within the sheltered and relatively stable waters protected by existing breakwaters and port structures. Therefore, these areas are not considered "development without environmental impact assessment" but were processed according to the current environmental impact assessment regulations.

During the towing and deployment of caissons, specialized "dolphin observers" will be stationed on land and at sea. If a white dolphin is detected near the construction zone, all related operations will be temporarily halted. Work will only resume after the dolphins have moved out of the affected area, ensuring their safety and well-being.