TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan Railway Corp. is piloting platform doors at Kaohsiung Station.
The NT$150 million (US$4.6 million) project aims to prevent passengers and objects from falling onto the tracks. Construction began in January, with testing now underway, per CNA.
The multi-train compatible system is slated for completion by the end of the year. It is expected to become operational in March 2026.
TRC statistics indicate over 20 annual incidents of passengers or items falling onto the tracks. Due to the complexity of train models, a trial of platform screen doors compatible with multiple train types was planned last year at Kaohsiung.
Platform two was specifically chosen for the trial as it accommodates 14 train models.
Furthermore, the lower train traffic at Kaohsiung Station will minimize disruptions during the testing phase. Following the system's launch, TRC will evaluate its effectiveness to inform long-term plans for implementation at other stations.
The platform door contractor stated each unit includes two main pillars, a balancing pillar, an upper guide rail, and a steel cable net. The doors operate by lifting and lowering.
The bottom gap of the steel cable net is about 13 cm to prevent children and items from falling. In emergencies, the 20-meter span can be lifted by a single person for evacuation.
The platform doors are designed to withstand the impact of a 200-kg electric wheelchair traveling at 6 kph. Their cable-based design also makes them difficult to climb.
A management protocol will be established before operation, outlining procedures for system issues, malfunctions, and passenger violations.
