Department of Rapid Transit Systems

The overall construction progress of Xinyi eastern extension, which is considered one of the most challenging MRT construction projects in history, has reached 85%. Under the diligent efforts of the DORTS construction team, in addition to the structural completion of the Guangci/Fengtian Temple Station area and the crossover section, the project has now entered the architectural finishing stage, and the E&M systems are gradually being installed, with full efforts to reach the goal of completing construction by the end of the year. 

DORTS stated that Xinyi eastern extension construction is moving full-speed ahead, and following the completion of construction, it will be possible to reach Tamsui directly by taking the Tamsui-Xinyi line from Guangci/Fengtian Temple Station. Furthermore, it will reduce travel times along the route and for the public to reach the Xinyi Administrative Center.

DORTS further elaborated that the E&M systems for Xinyi eastern extension are gradually being installed. DORTS specially arranged for Chief Chang Yu-jia, who is in charge of E&M system engineering of this contract, to record a video. The public can get a glimpse of the electromechanical equipment details, such as the track switches, which cannot be viewed during regular MRT operations.

DORTS explained that the switches are core pieces of equipment for the track signaling system and are responsible for track switching. When EMUs run on steel tracks and need to change tracks, the switch directs the connecting rod to move the point rail for changing tracks. The switch is an important device for determining the direction of travel.

DORTS further explained that the video also showcases other electromechanical equipment including impedance bond in track circuits, which are related to speed codes received by the electric trains. The power systems essential for operations, such as driving EMUs, station elevators, escalators and lighting, rely on electricity transmitted through 22kV high-voltage cables. DORTS pointed out that the video shows the 22kV cable routing, the DC cable exothermic welding and power supply equipment room. In addition, the pillars have already been installed for the platform doors which can be seen when taking the MRT, and following the completion of the waiting gates, sliding doors, and fixed doors, the structure of the platform doors will be mostly completed. Pressure testing of the opening and closing of the doors will be conducted next.

SEMPO Chief Chang stated that following the installation of the track's electrical and mechanical equipment, static testing of the equipment and dynamic testing of the actual trains will be carried out sequentially. The EMUs will actually enter into the section, and verifications will be carried out with the trains running to ensure that a safe and comfortable MRT system is provided to the public.

DORTS also mentioned that as of May this year, the construction progress of Xinyi eastern extension had already reached 85%. Xinyi eastern extension connects to the eastern end of the tail track at Xiangshan Station, and it extends the original high-capacity underground project eastbound for a total length of 1.4km. Following the completion of construction, it will significantly improve the transportation benefits of the Xinyi line and maximize the efficiency of the overall Taipei MRT network. DORTS also stated that the public is invited to browse the official website at any time in order to gain a greater understanding of the latest developments in the construction and planning of the MRT lines.