Monday, June 30, 2025
Taipei is set to transform its urban mobility with the expansion of its metro network, ushering in a new era of connectivity and efficiency. With the addition of fifty-seven kilometers of new rail lines, the city is enhancing its transit infrastructure to meet the growing demands of its population. This ambitious expansion integrates cutting-edge AI technology to streamline operations, making travel faster and more efficient. Beyond just improving transit, the expansion also brings cultural enhancements, with public art and community-focused projects that enrich the urban experience. This comprehensive development will not only alleviate congestion but also contribute to a more sustainable and vibrant Taipei.
Recent Additions to Taipei’s Expanding Metro System
In recent years, New Taipei City has introduced three new metro lines — the Danhai Light Rail, Ankeng Light Rail, and the Circular Line. These additions stretch across 26 kilometers and include 26 stations, providing vital transit options to residents and travelers. Moreover, Taipei’s metro expansion continues to grow, with seven additional lines under construction. Spanning 57 kilometers and 51 stations, this ambitious phase of development represents the largest metro expansion initiative ever undertaken in Taiwan.
Taipei’s metro system is critical for urban mobility, offering an efficient alternative to road-based transportation. The ongoing expansion aims to reduce congestion and meet the demands of a city that continues to grow in size and population. Since the initial phase of operations began, metro ridership has soared by an astonishing 830%, indicating the city’s reliance on public transit and the effectiveness of the expanding network.
Technological Innovations Driving Metro Efficiency
Taipei’s metro expansion is not just about adding new lines but also incorporating cutting-edge technologies that optimize performance and improve the passenger experience. One example is the Danhai Light Rail, where the manual switch speed has increased from 10 km/h to 60 km/h, allowing trains to operate more efficiently and reducing delays.
Additionally, the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) in the metro system is set to revolutionize the way the city’s transit operates. AI-powered smart elevators are being tested on the Danhai and Ankeng lines to reduce waiting times and enhance passenger flow. These smart technologies will be available to the public by October, making the metro experience more convenient and time-efficient for daily commuters.
The Ankeng Light Rail will also benefit from AI advancements with an AI-controlled signal system, which will reduce train halts by 90%, further improving travel times and ensuring smoother service for passengers. The public can expect this feature to be fully operational by October as well.
Fostering Community and Cultural Integration
Taipei’s metro expansion takes a holistic approach, incorporating not just transportation needs but also cultural and community enhancements. Shuangcheng Station, for example, has been designed to combine learning and recreational spaces, offering more than just a transit hub. It serves as a community center where residents can access educational resources and engage in various recreational activities.
The Circular Line also includes public art installations that help elevate Taipei’s urban aesthetics. These installations not only beautify the metro system but also reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage. Taipei is transforming its metro network into a public art gallery, giving commuters a chance to experience the city’s art and culture as part of their daily journey.
Advancements in the Second Phase of Metro Expansion
Taipei’s second-phase metro projects are already making significant progress. The Sanying Line, which is currently undergoing testing, is slated to open in 2026. The construction of the Wanda-Zhonghe Line is also advancing, with tunnel boring completed. The project’s transfer corridor to the Circular Line is expected to be completed by 2027.
Another major development includes the Tucheng-Shulin Line, which is under city control and is advancing according to schedule. As part of the Circular Line project, Taipei is also constructing Taiwan’s first underground depot beneath a park, further reflecting the city’s commitment to integrating urban development with environmental sustainability.
Additionally, the Xidong Line broke ground in March and is being designed with smart systems and extra seating capacity to improve passenger comfort. The Keelung MRT, which is in the planning stages, will begin with elevated segments once the necessary cost approvals are secured.
Future Expansion Plans for Taipei’s Metro Network
Looking ahead, Taipei has exciting plans for Phase 3 of its metro expansion. The upcoming phase includes the construction of eight new lines, such as the Wutai Light Rail, as well as extensions to the Minsheng Line in Taipei and the Bade District in Taoyuan. Feasibility studies for new lines like the Shenkeng, Bali, Taiban, and Guangfu lines are already underway, while the Linkou Light Rail is expected to gain swift government approval.
Phase 3 of the expansion will add an additional 39 kilometers and 42 stations to the existing metro system, increasing the number of interchange stations to 33. This will significantly improve connectivity across Taipei and the surrounding regions, enhancing the city’s ability to manage its expanding population and improve daily commute efficiency.
Taipei’s ongoing metro expansion is not just a project to address transportation challenges; it’s a comprehensive plan to create a more sustainable, efficient, and connected urban environment. With the introduction of new lines, smart technologies, and community-focused designs, the city is setting a new standard for urban transit systems. As the metro network grows, Taipei will continue to evolve into a global leader in urban mobility, providing a reliable and innovative transportation solution for its residents and visitors alike.
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