Taiwan to close Guangfu Bridge for military drill simulating enemy blockade

Taiwan is set to conduct a significant military exercise on the night of August 12, involving the full closure of the Guangfu Bridge. This key transportation artery connects Banqiao District in New Taipei City with Wanhua District in Taipei City.

The drill, part of the Han Kuang 42 live-fire exercises, aims to simulate the blocking of enemy forces attempting to infiltrate the capital's central government area. The Military Police are expected to play a crucial role in this operation, potentially showcasing newly acquired weaponry.

This exercise continues a pattern of bridge closure drills seen in recent Han Kuang exercises. In previous years, bridges like the Wanban Bridge and Huacui Bridge have been used for similar simulations. The scale and intensity of these drills have reportedly increased annually, with the introduction of HESCO defensive barriers in the past.

Authorities have advised motorists to use alternative routes, including the Wanban Bridge, Huacui Bridge, and Huazhong Bridge, during the closure, which is scheduled from 11 p.m. on August 12 to 5 a.m. on August 13. Public bus services will also be rerouted.