In a move to accommodate the high demand for travel during the upcoming Lunar New Year holiday, Taiwan Railway Corporation (TRC) has unveiled plans to add 64 extra trains to its services. The decision comes as part of TRC’s strategy to address the surge in passengers expected during the festive period, which runs from February 14 to February 22, 2026.
Extended Holiday Travel Period and Increased Capacity
This year, the Lunar New Year holiday extends for nine
days, but TRC has designated a 12-day travel window from February 12 to
February 23. This extended period is aimed at ensuring smoother and more
efficient travel for both locals and tourists. Along with the 64 additional
trains, the railway corporation had already announced two rounds of additional
services, bringing the total to an impressive 323 extra trains during this
12-day period.
The new additions will include a mix of reserved-seat
trains along both the eastern and western lines, bolstering the capacity of
Taiwan’s rail network to handle the massive volume of holiday travellers.
According to TRC, this increase in services will bring the total capacity
during the Lunar New Year period to an 8% increase over normal weekday levels,
ensuring that travellers have more options to choose from when planning their
trips.
How to Book and Availability of New Train Services
The newly added trains will be available for booking
starting at midnight on Thursday, February 1. Tickets for these extra trains
can be purchased through several convenient channels. Travelers can reserve
their seats online, use TRC’s mobile app, visit convenience stores, or make
bookings by phone. TRC has emphasized that the availability of tickets for the
additional trains will help mitigate the strain on the regular schedules during
this peak season.
For those interested in specific schedules, TRC has made the full details of the additional services available on its official website and app. These platforms will provide the exact dates and times for the extra trains, helping passengers plan their journeys accordingly.
Standing Tickets and Suspension of Non-Served Seating
In addition to the extra reserved trains, TRC will also make standing tickets available for travel. From February 12 to February 23, 200 standing tickets will be sold daily for those traveling on the EMU300 series of trains operating along the western line. This measure is being introduced to accommodate passengers who are unable to secure reserved seating on certain high-demand routes.
Moreover, TRC has announced that non-served seating on
EMU300 trains on the western line will be suspended during the travel period.
Passengers who choose to travel without a reserved seat will need to purchase
standing tickets on the day of travel, which are expected to offer more
flexibility for last-minute travelers.
Preparing for the Rush: TRC’s Strategic Measures for Smooth Operations
To ensure that the holiday rush remains manageable,
TRC has put several measures in place. The additional trains, along with
standing tickets, are designed to accommodate travelers while maintaining
efficiency and minimizing overcrowding. This year’s strategy builds upon
previous years’ experiences of handling large volumes of passengers during
Taiwan’s busiest travel season.
Travelers are encouraged to book early, especially if
they plan on traveling during peak hours or on routes with traditionally high
demand. The added trains are expected to significantly reduce pressure on the
existing services, making it easier for everyone to find a seat.
Looking Ahead to Future Holiday Seasons
TRC’s ongoing investment in improving its service
during peak seasons, like the Lunar New Year, reflects the company’s commitment
to providing reliable and efficient public transportation. The decision to add
extra trains is part of a broader effort to enhance passenger experience and
address the transportation needs of the growing population and increasing
tourist numbers in Taiwan.
As Taiwan prepares for a busy holiday season,
travelers can expect a more comfortable and convenient journey thanks to the
expanded services, additional trains, and the option for standing tickets. By
ensuring the necessary infrastructure and logistical measures are in place, TRC
hopes to make the Lunar New Year travel experience as smooth as possible for
all passengers.
Wrapping Up: Taiwan Railway Ensures Stress-Free Lunar New Year Travel with
Extra Services
With the Lunar
New Year holiday around the corner, Taiwan Railway Corporation is making the
right moves to ensure a smooth and efficient travel experience for everyone. By
adding 64 extra trains, increasing capacity by 8%, and
introducing standing tickets, TRC is set to meet the demand from the expected
influx of holiday travellers. As always, passengers are advised to book early
to secure their seats and ensure a hassle-free journey.
Tags: Taiwan Railway Corporation Lunar New Year holiday
