Taiwan Premier Inspects Yilan Pumping Station, Demands Completion by February 2028 for Flood Defense

Premier Cho Jung-tai inspected the Xizhou Pumping Station new construction project in Yilan, emphasizing the need for timely completion to strengthen local flood defenses. While some pumping units are already operational, Cho stressed that the overall project must meet its target by February 2028, ideally before the flood season begins that year, to alleviate the suffering of local residents from water damage.

Cho acknowledged the effective local flood prevention measures during the recent Typhoon Bavi, which successfully reduced disaster damage. He visited Yilan to express gratitude and assess the progress of related water management projects. The central government has initiated a four-year, NT$100 billion systematic flood control plan nationwide to address recurring flooding issues. For Yilan specifically, a budget of NT$6.5 billion has been allocated to ensure the completion of major pumping station projects like Zhuangdong and Zhenzhu within the plan's timeframe, aiming to fundamentally resolve internal and external drainage and protection problems and establish a robust flood resilience foundation for the region.

Regarding the Su'ao diversion project, Premier Cho affirmed the central government's commitment to assist, increasing the budget allocation by NT$2.1 billion. He urged relevant administrative units to identify and resolve any procurement obstacles, even proactively engaging contractors if necessary, to ensure the project's swift completion. He stated that local residents' expectations and anxieties must not be disappointed.

Yilan County Acting Magistrate Lin Mao-sheng noted that Qixian has long been plagued by floods, with water levels reaching up to 1 meter and lasting for 34 hours in the past. He expressed confidence that with the county government's ongoing improvement efforts and the central government's strong support, they can meet future flood control challenges. The Xizhou Pumping Station new construction project, with a total budget of approximately NT$310 million, includes the construction of one pumping station and its ancillary facilities. It is designed to install three 4cms pumping units, achieving a total installed capacity of 12cms, with space reserved for an additional unit.