TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) said Saturday the government is scaling up flood prevention efforts, citing extreme weather threats and public safety concerns.

Following an inspection of flood mitigation efforts along the Zengwen River in Tainan, the premier noted that southern and central Taiwan were hit hard by torrential rain Thursday, with Pingtung recording more than 300 mm in one day, per CNA.

Cho said that long-term flood prevention is critical not just for safety, but also for protecting agriculture, especially with mangos and guavas now approved for export to the EU.

This year, the government increased funding for systematic flood control to NT$55.1 billion (US$1.86 billion), up NT$15.9 billion from last year. More than NT$5.8 billion has been invested in drainage improvements along the Zengwen River, with only 2.2 kilometers of upstream work left.

Cho said the economics ministry is finalizing a comprehensive flood strategy. Key elements include shared runoff systems and local flood detention zones, supported by forest and soil conservation.

With the rainy season underway, Cho urged agencies to be prepared. He also called on local governments to improve flood control measures and maintain project quality.