Taroko Express train stalls in Hualien after pantograph snags overhead line

A Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) Taroko Express train experienced a significant disruption on Thursday afternoon when its pantograph became entangled with the overhead catenary line. The incident occurred on train No. 218, traveling from Shulin to Hualien, near the Fengcun level crossing between Beipu and Hualien stations.

The entanglement caused the train's pantograph to be pulled and damaged, leading to a complete halt of the train. As a result, train operations between Beipu and Hualien were restricted to single-line traffic on the western track. The TRA has established a Level 1 emergency response team and dispatched mechanical and electrical personnel to the site for urgent repairs.

Passengers aboard the stranded train were transferred to another service, train No. 4026, at approximately 1:26 PM. The TRA has issued an apology for the inconvenience caused to travelers. The disruption has led to delays for both northbound and southbound trains on the affected section. Railway police were dispatched to assist with passenger transfers and manage traffic at nearby level crossings to ensure safety.