TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan High Speed Rail Chair Shih Che (史哲) announced expanded early-bird ticket discounts for non-peak travel over holidays in September and October. 

Fare discounts have been increased from 35% to 50% for 150,000 early bird tickets available beginning Aug. 29. Upcoming holidays this fall include Teachers' Day (Sept. 28), Mid-Autumn Festival (Oct. 6), and National Day (Oct. 10), per CNA.

Shih, speaking to the media on Wednesday, said the new fare discounts are part of a larger plan to address overcrowding on trains by encouraging passengers to travel during off-peak times. He said service quality has been compromised by overcrowding as the railway does not consider it a "normal occurrence" and is seeking remedies.

He said the THSR has chosen a gentle approach to resolve the heavy passenger demand, though more forceful measures may be needed soon. Shih said restricting the number of non-reserved passengers allowed to board trains is one possibility.

Passengers with reserved seats have recently complained about being unable to board trains due to overcrowding by an excessive number of non-reserved ticket holders. Shih called upon business owners to allow employees more flexible travel, given current conditions on the THSR.