TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Farmers are transforming rice fields along the Yunlin High Speed Rail corridor into mixed-grain and dry-crop farmland to save water and curb land subsidence.

The move is in response to declining rice consumption and a domestic shortage of mixed grains, per CNA. The corridor is projected to save more than 480,000 metric tons of water while cutting carbon emissions by 167.4 tons and reducing groundwater extraction.

In 2023, the agriculture ministry partnered with the transportation ministry to encourage rice farmers to grow crops like sweet corn and edamame, which require far less water. Dry mixed crops save roughly 4,856 metric tons of water per hectare annually compared with rice.

Last year, 34 hectares along the corridor were converted to mixed grains. This year, the government expanded the program to nearly 100 hectares.

The project also strengthens the local mixed-grain industry by ensuring stable production and quality. Great Agri. Technology Co. is improving domestic sweet corn through full traceability and food safety.

This year, the company planted 30 hectares of sweet corn along the HSR corridor demonstration area. Its products are sold through major retailers such as Carrefour and PX Mart.