According to an article by CTI News, a significant earthquake, registering a magnitude of 7.2 on the Richter scale, struck the New Taipei Ring Line today (3rd) at 7:58 am, causing alarm throughout Taiwan.
The epicenter of the quake was situated 25.0 kilometers south-southeast of the Hualien County Government.
Reports indicate that the earthquake might have caused track displacement
There have been public reports indicating that the earthquake’s impact was felt on the Circular Line railway track in New Taipei City, near Banxin Station, with suspicions of track displacement.
Following the initial earthquake, the Taiwan MRT Bureau promptly announced the suspension of operations on all lines. The high-speed rail and express trains also subsequently halted their services.
MRT Director, Li Zhengan, has since dispatched an electric train to the affected site to assess the situation.
No abnormalities reported
Upon preliminary examination, the incident appears to be an eccentric track column, with no signs of displaced force-reducing tenons or abnormal signals.
The MRT Bureau is currently reviewing the as-built drawings for a thorough investigation.
Despite the earthquake and initial concerns, the MRT Bureau has reported no abnormalities, and the situation is under control.
The public is advised to stay tuned for further updates and instructions from the authorities. The safety and well-being of the passengers and personnel remain the top priority for the MRT Bureau.